Dean Hoke Announces His Retirement and Dr. Sandra Affenito, Chairperson Elect of the AAUA Board of Directors, is Appointed Interim President/CEO

January 1, 2025
Fort Pierce, Florida

Dean Hoke, who has served as President/CEO of the American Association of University Administrators (AAUA), has announced his retirement, effective December 31, 2024. Hoke assumed the role on July 1, 2023, following the retirement of long-time President Dan King.

Reflecting on his tenure, Hoke stated, “It has been a true honor to serve the AAUA and work alongside such dedicated and talented colleagues over the years. During my time as President/CEO, I am particularly proud of the progress we have made together—growing our membership, achieving success with our newly established annual conference and recognition dinner, establishing new partnerships, and maintaining our commitment to the professional development needs of university administrators. I am confident that the AAUA will continue to thrive under new leadership, and I am committed to ensuring a smooth transition in the months ahead. I am ready to assist in any way that facilitates this process.”

The AAUA Executive Committee has unanimously appointed Dr. Sandra Affenito, Chairperson Elect of the Board of Directors, as Interim President/CEO. Dr. Affenito brings a wealth of leadership experience to this role. Her rich and diverse background spans higher education, healthcare, industry, private practice, and bio-behavioral research.

Dr. Affenito is an accomplished executive leader in higher education, with a demonstrated history of success in academic administration, strategic operations and planning, program growth, enrollment management, and leadership development. Beyond higher education, as president, delegate, and chairperson, she has effectively directed non-profit boards and professional organizations through change, spearheaded the re-establishment of affiliate networks, expanded the growth and diversity of membership, raised brand awareness, and enhanced professional development activities. For the American Association of University Administrators, Dr. Affenito served as Chair of the Professional Development Committee, Chair-Elect, and is currently active in planning the 2025 conference. Dr. Affenito’s unwavering commitment to the AAUA mission helps to shape and advance the future of higher education.

Dr. Affenito shared her thoughts on assuming this role: “I am deeply honored to be entrusted with this responsibility during this pivotal time for the AAUA. Dean Hoke’s leadership has set a strong foundation, and I look forward to building on the significant strides the organization has made under his tenure. Together with our members and partners, we will continue advancing the AAUA's mission to support higher education administrators.”

Greg Paveza, Chair of the AAUA Board of Directors, expressed his gratitude and confidence: “On behalf of the entire Board, I want to thank Dean Hoke for his outstanding leadership and dedication to the AAUA. His vision and commitment have left an indelible mark on the organization. We are equally confident in Dr. Affenito’s ability to guide the AAUA during this transition and sustain the momentum we have built.”

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For More Information:
Dr. Gregory J. Paveza/ Chairman of the Board
AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF UNIVERSITY ADMINISTRATORS
DrGJP@gregoryjpaveza.com │ www.aaua.org