Contact: Laura Osberger
lauraosberger@schev.edu
(804) 387-5191

May 18, 2023

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

RICHMOND — The State Council of Higher Education for Virginia will embark on a search for a new director, after long-time director Peter Blake announced that he will step down by the end of the calendar year.

“SCHEV plays a central role in promoting the development and operation of a sound, vigorous, progressive and coordinated system of higher education in the Commonwealth,” said Council chair Ken Ampy. “It is essential that we find a new leader who can build on Peter’s legacy to keep moving Virginia forward.”

During Mr. Blake’s nearly 12 years as director, Virginia’s colleges and universities have conferred nearly 1.2 million degrees and certificates. Most of the recipients of those degrees stay in Virginia and contribute directly to the economic and cultural well-being of the Commonwealth.

“Few careers allow one to work on important issues with smart, capable and committed people on important issues,” said Mr. Blake, who became director in 2012. “Higher education does indeed change lives, and I am grateful to have had the opportunity to help make Virginia one of the best states for education.”

During his tenure, SCHEV has produced two statewide strategic plans for higher education. SCHEV also has participated in funding and policy decisions that have expanded student access, helped address labor market needs and improved institutional effectiveness.

“On behalf of the dozens of Virginians who have served on the Council over the past 12 years, we are grateful to Peter for his leadership and for building a capable and dedicated staff to carry out the mission,” said Council vice-chair Katharine Webb. “Peter is admired across the state for being an honest broker in an enterprise with many stakeholders. As we go forward with a search for a new leader, each Council member shares a common bond and commitment to the Commonwealth’s excellent system of higher education.”

Chair Ampy said he would establish a search committee, which will work in coordination with the Office of the Secretary of Education and others to identify candidates to be considered as a successor to Mr. Blake.

Mr. Blake intends to enjoy some time off before making any future plans.

# # #

The State Council of Higher Education for Virginia is the state’s coordinating agency for higher education. With Pathways to Opportunity: The Virginia Plan for Higher Education, SCHEV is dedicated to making Virginia the best state for education by 2030. For more on this statewide strategic plan, visit schev.edu/TheVirginiaPlan.