Minneapolis (KROC AM News) - The University of Minnesota Board of Regents appointed Joan Gabel as the school’s 17th President by a unanimous vote Tuesday.

She will begin her new job July 1, 2019.

“President-Designate Gabel stood out from a highly competitive pool of candidates that advanced through a thorough and thoughtful search process. Her qualifications, combined with her warmth, energy and her genuine engagement with students, faculty, staff, and others are proof that she will make an outstanding President,” said David McMillan, chair of the Board of Regents.

“I have known for a while now that the University of Minnesota is where my family and I want to be,” said Gabel. “But after traveling across this state, meeting so many people who love the University and seeing how our research, teaching, and service have real impact here and beyond, I’m even more excited to join this community and I’m honored to be named the next President of the University of Minnesota.

The 50-year-old Gabel will be the first woman in the University's 167-year history to hold its highest office.

The regents approved a five-year contract that will pay Gabel an annual salary of $640,000. She will serve out the remainder of her term as Provost at the University of South Carolina. Current President Eric Kaler will remain in office until June 30 and the presidency will officially transition to Gabel the next day.

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