Hammersmith has served as provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs at UW-Green Bay since July 2002. She is UW-Green Bay's chief academic officer reporting to the chancellor and the chief operating officer.

"I am honored and excited about having the opportunity to lead an outstanding university like Metropolitan State University," Hammersmith said today. "I look forward to meeting with members of the university community and start working together to make a strong institution even stronger."

It is anticipated that Hammersmith’s appointment would become effective July 1, pending approval by the Board of the Trustees.

UW-Green Bay Chancellor Bruce Shepard said the recommendation of Hammersmith for the Metropolitan State University presidency is UW-Green Bay's loss and Metropolitan State's gain.

"Dr. Hammersmith has provided us with outstanding service," Shepard said. "At such times, I think it is important not to think about what we are losing but, rather, to celebrate what we have permanently gained under Sue's leadership."

Shepard said her long list of achievements at UW-Green Bay includes leadership in numerous diversity initiatives, establishment of modern, academically focused strategic planning and budgeting processes, and her accomplishments in helping develop and advance Northeastern Wisconsin's Growth Agenda for UW-Green Bay.

Hammersmith said she is proud of what UW-Green Bay has accomplished during the past six years. She said the University, with its exceptional faculty and staff, is a special place and a valuable resource for the region and state.

Hammersmith, 59, joined UW-Green Bay after serving as dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Ferris State University, which has several campuses in west-central Michigan. She previously was dean of University College at Ball State University in Muncie, Ind., and assistant dean of the School of Liberal Arts at Indiana University-Purdue University at Indianapolis.

She has three degrees from Indiana University, including Ph.D. and master's degrees in sociology and a bachelor's degree in anthropology.

At Metropolitan State University, Hammersmith would succeed William Lowe, who served as interim president after former president Wilson Bradshaw resigned in October to take a position in Florida.

Chancellor Shepard said Hammersmith is expected to continue to serve UW-Green Bay through the end of June. Shepard said he will work with Hammersmith and campus governance groups to assure a transition that does not impede UW-Green Bay's current momentum.