ED Search


ED Search

UCEA is beginning a leadership transition following the resignation of Executive Director Dr. Mónica Byrne-Jiménez. This page has been created to share official updates related to the transition and search process, including timeline information, announcements from the Executive Committee, and future opportunities for community feedback.

Community Input

UCEA is committed to engaging its members throughout this transition. Community input will play an important role in shaping the future direction of the organization and informing the Executive Director role.

UCEA is working with Greenwood Asher & Associates (GA&A) to gather confidential feedback from members and stakeholders. This feedback will help inform the Executive Director position profile, including the responsibilities, qualifications, priorities, culture, and expectations for UCEA’s next Executive Director.

Complete the ED Search Stakeholder Input Survey


Current Search Status

The Executive Committee, in collaboration with Michigan State University, has initiated the leadership transition process following the resignation of Executive Director Dr. Mónica Byrne-Jiménez. Dr. Byrne-Jiménez has moved up her resignation timeline to April 24, 2026.

The transition is unfolding in three phases:

  • Pre-search – establishing the timeline, search structure, transition budget, stakeholder engagement process, and interim leadership planning
  • Search and selection – identifying and appointing the next Executive Director
  • Onboarding – supporting the transition into new leadership

The Executive Committee is currently working on interim ED transition planning, stakeholder engagement, and the development of a comprehensive ED position profile. Additional details will be shared on this page as they become available.


Search Timeline

  • April 2026: Stakeholder survey and pre-search feedback process
  • May–June 2026: Outreach and candidate development
  • June–July 2026: Candidate evaluation and initial interviews
  • July–August 2026: Finalist interviews and appointment


EC Communication

The following letters and updates provide important context regarding the leadership transition and the Executive Director search process.


Search Firm

UCEA has selected Greenwood Asher & Associates (GA&A) to support the Executive Director search. GA&A brings experience partnering with universities and higher education organizations across the country, including many within UCEA’s consortium.

Website: https://www.greenwoodsearch.com/

Search Firm Contacts:


About the Transition

Dr. Mónica Byrne-Jiménez has served as Executive Director since 2019, leading UCEA through a period of growth, organizational development, and significant challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic and evolving higher education contexts.

During her tenure, UCEA strengthened its organizational infrastructure, expanded membership, advanced equity-focused initiatives, and built key partnerships that support its mission and impact.

As UCEA enters this transition, the organization remains committed to continuity, community engagement, and advancing its mission in support of educational leadership.


Questions

Members of the Executive Committee welcome questions as UCEA moves through this important transition. Leads within GA&A are also available for conversations should you have additional insights about the future Executive Director role or wish to begin exploring the position.