Vice President for Finance and Administration

Dear Laurentian community,

I am very pleased to share with you that Karl Spiecker, who joined our community in January 2023 as Interim Vice President for Finance and Administration, has accepted my offer to remain at St. Lawrence as our next Vice President for Finance and Administration, effective immediately.

While I know many of you will be happy to hear this news, you may also be surprised, knowing that we have been in the midst of a national search for the next vice president.  As our search progressed, it became ever more clear that the person with the leadership, collaboration, and communication skills necessary for success in the role was already with us as our interim vice president.  

Karl's tenure at St. Lawrence has been marked by making significant progress, particularly in addressing our structural deficit and navigating complex financial challenges. He has demonstrated steady leadership and has an authentic and genuine style. His down-to-earth demeanor and steadfast guidance have instilled confidence and propelled us toward meaningful financial progress. 

In addition to careful observation of Karl’s performance over the past year, before deciding to offer him the role, I consulted with key stakeholders, including, trustee leaders, senior staff members, direct reports to the vice president, and search committee members—all of whom enthusiastically support Karl. In addition, Alison Del Rossi, vice president of the university and dean of academic affairs, consulted with the faculty and staff conveners of relevant governance committees, who interviewed candidates along the way—who also believed that Karl was the best of our current options. 

I invite each of you to join me in extending warm and heartfelt congratulations to Karl Spiecker as he continues his important work at St. Lawrence as Vice President for Finance and Administration.

Sincerely,
Kate Morris