Robert A. Kerr, director of the alumni relations program at the University of California, Davis, will head the campus's new international alumni and visitors program, effective July 1. "This position meets an important yet unmet campus need to extend its global reach and broaden its base of alumni support around the world," said William B. Lacy, vice provost for university outreach and international programs. "It is growing increasingly important to our research and educational programs that we build stronger relationships with our international alumni and higher education institutions. I am pleased that Bob has agreed to assume this key new role." In his new post, Kerr will develop and implement programs that identify, cultivate and sustain UC Davis' relationship with its international alumni and scholars; coordinate campus visits by international dignitaries in conjunction with other appropriate campus offices, as well as international travel by campus leaders; and advance an international life-long learning experience for alumni. "Bob's boundless enthusiasm, breadth of knowledge and university experience make him especially well-suited to undertake these new responsibilities," said Vice Chancellor for University Relations Celeste E. Rose. "I am heartened that we will continue to work together closely to advance the interests of the academy." Kerr will report directly to Lacy, but maintain a reporting relationship with Rose, to whom the Office of Alumni Relations reports. Director of alumni relations and executive director of the Cal Aggie Alumni Association since 1993, Kerr has served the campus for more than 28 years. Previous appointments include administrator for housing and student recreation programs, special assistant to the chancellor and director of several fund-raising programs. Under his leadership, the Office of Alumni Relations has increased alumni membership substantially, established a $4 million endowment for alumni programs and a $1 million endowment for scholarships, increased the number of alumni chapters, expanded alumni participation in student recruitment and legislative advocacy, and strengthened collaboration with the campus's colleges, schools and divisions. "During my tenure, I have been blessed to work with five visionary Cal Aggie Alumni Association presidents, countless dedicated alumni volunteers, and a highly skilled staff," Kerr said. "It is the collective efforts of these individuals that has moved the association forward and positioned it well for the future. I look forward to tapping these diverse contacts as I help to expand UC Davis' presence within the world community." A national search for Kerr's successor will begin immediately, in consultation with the Cal Aggie Alumni Association board of directors. Kerr received a bachelor's degree in political science from Capital University, a master's in higher education administration from Kent State University and a doctorate in counselor education/psychology from Kent State.