Office of the Chancellor Leadership Changes

Catharine Olsen

I am pleased to announce some leadership changes in the Office of the Chancellor effective immediately. Catharine Olsen will continue in her current role as Director of Academic Operations and also take on the duties of Chief of Staff. Catharine will work as a liaison between the Purdue Northwest campuses and the Office of the President in West Lafayette to build relationships and foster collaboration on key strategic initiatives.

She will work with senior leadership and community partners to further the planning and implementation of the University’s academic, strategic, and operational priorities. Catharine will continue her work in building the First Year Advising Center and teaming together with Academic Affairs and Enrollment Management to strengthen retention efforts.

Matthew Wells

For the past several years, Matthew Wells has led PNW’s external engagement and public affairs strategy and efforts in the Office of Institutional Advancement. He will continue working on these initiatives while reporting directly to me in his role as Chief Engagement Officer.

Working closely with academic and administrative leaders, Matt cultivates opportunities for the university to maximize our impact on the surrounding region and industry, particularly with regard to economic and workforce development, philanthropy, and placemaking. Matt will continue to serve as PNW’s liaison for legislative affairs and government relations at the local, state, and federal levels.

I am excited for my team to serve the students, faculty, staff, and greater community of Purdue University Northwest.

Kenneth C. Holford
Chancellor