The following is a statement from the Association of American Universities regarding the election of Vanderbilt University Chancellor Nicholas S. Zeppos as chair of its board of directors:
The Association of American Universities today elected Vanderbilt University Chancellor Nicholas S. Zeppos as chair of its board of directors. His one-year term begins today with the conclusion of AAU’s semiannual meeting in Washington, D.C. Chancellor Zeppos succeeds The Ohio State University President Michael V. Drake, after serving as AAU vice chair for the past year. AAU today also elected Michael McRobbie, President of Indiana University, as vice chair.
“The important discoveries and innovations emerging daily from America’s research universities continue to serve as an engine of progress to society,” Zeppos said. “I look forward to working with my AAU colleagues to advocate for the mission of research universities, advance groundbreaking research and expand access to an outstanding education for all.”
As chair, Zeppos will help guide AAU’s work and serve as a spokesperson for the association, particularly on federal policy issues affecting research universities. He will also represent AAU in discussions with U.S. lawmakers, help develop national policy positions, and play a significant role in determining the association’s agenda during the coming year.
“A notable legal scholar and a distinguished university leader, Chancellor Zeppos will be an outstanding AAU chair,” said AAU President Mary Sue Coleman. “He has a deep understanding of the economic and other vital roles research universities play in their local communities and states, and at the national level. He’s played an integral part in Vanderbilt’s success in articulating its value and gaining public support. His experience and active participation in AAU leadership activities make him a natural chair for the association.”
Nicholas Zeppos has served as chancellor of Vanderbilt University since 2008 and previously served as the university’s chief academic officer and vice chancellor from 2002 – 08. Zeppos joined Vanderbilt in 1987 as an assistant professor in the Law School, served as associate dean, associate provost, prior to being named provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs in 2002. He is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison and serves on the board of directors for a number of organizations.
Founded in 1900, the Association of American Universities comprises 62 distinguished institutions that continually advance society through education, research, and discovery.
Our universities earn the majority of competitively awarded federal funding for academic research, are improving human life and wellbeing through research, and are educating tomorrow’s visionary leaders and global citizens.
AAU members collectively help shape policy for higher education, science, and innovation; promote best practices in undergraduate and graduate education; and strengthen the contributions of research universities to society.