Gannon University created the new position of vice president for Planning and Finance following the recent departure of Linda Wagner, former vice president of Finance and Administration.
According to a university email, Wagner spent most of her career following her graduation from Gannon taking on several leadership roles and being an ambassador on campus and within the community.
Wagner spent her more than 30 year’s at the university working on multiple projects and programs throughout the campus. Some of Wagner’s most recent work included leading improvements of the Nash Library and the Ruskin campus in Florida.
Due to Wagner’s departure, the new position of vice president for Planning and Finance was created. Valerie Bacik, former director of Planning and Strategic Initiatives, will now assume the new position.
Bacik was chosen to take on the new role after careful consideration of the talents and resources necessary to succeed, according to a university email.
Gannon University President Keith Taylor, Ph.D., said in the email that Bacik’s background made her a good fit for the new position. She will be leading the delivery of service to students and faculty of the university now and in the future. Bacik will also be responsible for delivering the needs of the communities Gannon serves around the world.
Taylor said that the position will bring new leadership responsibilities to Bacik.
He said the new role for Bacik and the university includes the primary responsibilities of leading the integrated services of budget and controller, cashier’s, enterprise risk management, human resources, planning and police and safety.
He said that Bacik will play a major role in allowing individuals from Gannon to achieve success.
“We are excited by the energy Val brings to integrate strategic thought and action across campus to elevate essential processes and functions to the university,” he said.
“She will continue to be a key member of the President’s Leadership Team, advancing our organizational health and ensuring the personal and professional success of our employees and students.”

HARLEE BOEHM
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