Grand Valley State University President Thomas Haas announced that Karen Loth will become the interim vice president of University Development, effective Jan. 3.

Loth, currently assistant vice president in the office, will replace current VP Maribeth Wardrop after she retires at the end of the year. During the transition period between Loth’s appointment and the hiring of the new vice president, Loth will maintain the responsibilities of both positions.

“It will be a good challenge,” Loth said.

The length of Loth’s term as vice president is uncertain. Provost Gayle Davis is currently interviewing applicants to be permanently appointed to the position.

Loth said she wants to keep up the momentum that University Development has maintained since its creation 15 years ago. Under Wardrop, the office has raised $200 million in private donations, most recently from the Shaping Our Future campaign. As Loth prepares for her new position, she said is looking forward to working with GVSU donors.

“They know Grand Valley is making a difference,” Loth said.

Loth graduated from Michigan State University with an English degree and teaching certificate. Before coming to GVSU in 2010, Loth worked as an intern director and career planner at Aquinas College for 15 years. She said she was drawn to GVSU because of its focus on excellence and its students.

Loth worked as an intern director and career planner at Aquanis College in Grand Rapids for 15 years.

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