The University of Connecticut Board of Trustees today appointed Philip E. Austin as interim president of the school.
Austin, who previously served as president of UConn from 1996 to 2007, will begin his term  June 11 and will remain in that position until a new president is selected, a process that is expected to take several months.
Michael Hogan recently resigned as UConn’s president to take the same position at the University of Illinois.
“During this period of transition, it is essential that the University have an experienced leader to guide us forward, particularly as we face budgetary challenges and continue working to secure a renovated John Dempsey Hospital and new patient tower at the Health Center,” board chair Larry McHugh wrote in an e-mail to the University this afternoon. “Phil Austin has a deep commitment to UConn, pride in what we have achieved, and the desire to do whatever he can to ensure our continued growth and success.”
McHugh noted that the board is currently forming a broad-based committee that will conduct a nationwide search for a new president.
Since stepping-down as president, Austin has been a faculty member at UConn teaching courses in higher education leadership, as well as participating in accreditation and other activities of the New England Association of Schools and Colleges and the National Collegiate Athletic Association on behalf of the UConn.
Austin said he will not be a candidate for the permanent position. His salary will be $370,000 a year.
