The governor’s commissioner of financial services, Becky Wyke, has been tapped to be the vice chancellor for finance and administration at the University of Maine System – the second job she’s been offered in less than a month.
Gov. John Baldacci had nominated Wyke in July to be the head of the Finance Authority of Maine, but said Tuesday he supported her move to the university.
“Commissioner Wyke has been a trusted adviser and invaluable to Maine as we have worked to improve the state’s financial footing,” Baldacci said. “While I’m certain that she would have done a tremendous job at FAME, the University System needs her right now.”
“It’s critical for the University System to get its finances in order. Given the financial difficulties facing the University of Maine System and the recent troubles at the University of Southern Maine, Becky is the best person to help safeguard one of our state’s most important public assets,” Baldacci said.
University of Maine System Chancellor Richard Pattenaude announced Wyke’s new position, which will have to be approved by the University of Maine System’s board of trustees.
“Commissioner Wyke is one of Maine’s most respected and accomplished public servants,” Pattenaude said. “As the state’s top fiscal officer, Commissioner Wyke has an exceptional understanding of public finance and management as well as the university system’s role as a resource and partner in education and economic development.”
Wyke, 46, assumed her current position in 2003, shortly after Baldacci was sworn in as governor. Prior to that, she served more than 12 years as a top official in Maine’s Office of the Secretary of State, including eight years as chief deputy secretary of state. She holds a bachelor’s degree in political science and a master’s degree in public administration, both awarded from the University of Maine.
Pattenaude said Wyke’s appointment is for an initial two-year period, to begin Sept. 1. She will receive a $165,000 annual salary.
Wyke will succeed Joanne Yestramski, who last week announced her resignation as the university system’s chief financial officer and treasurer in order to accept a similar position elsewhere.
“Higher education is the single most important economic development tool available to the state,” Wyke stated. “I’m pleased to have the opportunity to be more involved in this critical area.”
Pattenaude said that the timing of Yestramski’s departure made it necessary for him to identify a capable successor quickly, in light of upcoming deadlines for completing and submitting the university system’s biennial budget request.
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