Virtual University CEO Returning to Colorado

FRANKFORT, Ky. (April 10, 2001) -

Mary Beth Susman, the first chief executive officer of the Kentucky Virtual University, announced today that she plans to return to the Colorado Community College System as a vice president at the end of June. She was president of the Colorado Electronic Community College when she accepted her current post in early 1999.

During her two years in Kentucky, as part of the Council on Postsecondary Education, Susman was instrumental in building one of the most successful enterprises of its kind anywhere. The virtual university has grown rapidly from some 200 students to more than 3,000, many of them taking more than one course. Enrollments have come from all 120 Kentucky counties, 27 other states, and 10 foreign countries. The Kentucky Virtual Library, providing an array of databases and periodicals, was recently named the outstanding library program in the Southeast by the Southeastern Library Network. Susman also worked closely with the state Department of Education to start the Kentucky Virtual High School.

"This is the best job I've had in my life," said Susman, who considers Colorado home. "It was hard choosing between two wonderful things. I've loved working with council President Gordon Davies. It's just fun to come to work here."

Davies said he's sorry to see Susman go but is thankful that "she left the virtual university well positioned for continued growth. We will be taking the virtual university where the market is." He praised Susman for developing the conceptual structure of the virtual university, for marketing it aggressively, and for gaining national and international exposure for the online venture and Kentucky's education reforms. The virtual university has been honored by the Smithsonian Institution, which has a record of it in its permanent collections.

"The Kentucky Virtual University is the most innovative piece of the ambitious reforms in the landmark Postsecondary Education Improvement Act of 1997," said Gov. Paul E. Patton. "Dr. Susman brought vision, determination, and great enthusiasm to the challenge of expanding education opportunities through the latest technology. Our colleges and universities and all Kentuckians should be grateful for what she and her staff have done so quickly and well."

Contact:
Sue Patrick, KYVU
(502) 573-1555
sue.patrick@kyvu.org

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