An MSU consultant who worked on the initial stages of the proposed new residential college has accepted a job with the University of Massachusetts.
Marcellette Williams, a consultant to Acting Provost John Hudzik, has accepted a job as senior vice president for academic and student affairs and international relations for the entire University of Massachusetts system, which includes five campuses.
Williams will assume her position full time in July, following completion of an MSU study abroad program in South Africa this summer.
"I had a wonderful experience here as a student, which was only topped by my experience as a faculty member and administrator," she said. "It makes sense to me that I find it difficult, and (I) will probably never say no to my alma mater."
A three-degree alumna of MSU, Williams served as deputy chancellor and then interim chancellor for the University of Massachusetts from 2001-2003, before retiring and moving back to Michigan.
In fall 2003, Williams came back to MSU to work with focus groups on the liberal arts reorganization, and was the chairwoman of the now-defunct New Residential College Program Planning Committee that released a draft of its recommendations for the college in October.
Her work in academics and also internationally is part of what caught the attention of the University of Massachusetts, said Bill Wright, director of public information for the university's president's office.
"Her interest in international relations is very intense and involved," Wright said. "With her range of experience, the university is thrilled to have her coming back to Massachusetts."
