Wyke abandons FAME nomination, takes position at UMS

Rebecca Wyke, commissioner of the Department of Administrative and Financial Services, will soon by joining the University of Maine System as Vice Chancellor of Finance and Administration.

There she will oversee all system-wide business, operational and administrative functions.

Gov. John Baldacci has withdrawn her name from consideration as CEO of the Finance Authority of Maine.

Elizabeth Bordowitz, acting FAME CEO, will continue to lead the organization.

Baldacci issued the following statement:

“Commissioner Wyke has been a trusted adviser and invaluable to Maine as we have worked to improve the State’s financial footing. While I’m certain that she would have done a tremendous job at FAME, the University System needs her right now.

“It’s critical for the University System to get its finances in order. Given the financial difficulties facing the University of Maine System and the recent troubles at the University of Southern Maine, Becky is the best person to help safeguard one of our State’s most important public assets."

Wyke’s new appointment requires the approval of the UMS Board of Trustees.

UMS Chancellor Richard Pattenaude issued the following statement:

“Commissioner Wyke is one of Maine’s most respected and accomplished public servants. As the state’s top fiscal officer, Commissioner Wyke has an exceptional understanding of public finance and management as well as the university system’s role as a resource and partner in education and economic development.

"It's that understanding, combined with her years of experience in government and public service, that makes her an ideal choice for this position. As vice chancellor for finance and administration, she will play a leading role in our ongoing efforts to enhance the university system's efficiency and effectiveness. That's going to be an important challenge, given these difficult economic times. But Becky is uniquely capable of handling this assignment.

“On top of that, we’re delighted that she’s an alumna of the University of Maine.”