Uric Dufrene, executive vice chancellor of Academic Affairs, may be new to his position, but he is no stranger to IU Southeast. Dufrene has worked at the university for the past 21 years. Appointed as vice chancellor this past summer, Dufrene plans to focus on improving relationships with surrounding schools and enhancing the university’s online presence.

“I can relate to IU Southeast and the community,” Dufrene said.

Dufrene began at IU Southeast as an assistant professor in 1992. He then served as dean of the School of Business from 1998 to 2002, and 2003 to 2006. He also served as Sanders Chair in Business. He received his bachelor’s degree in finance and MBA from Nicholls State University. Following that, Dufrene received his Ph.D. in finance from the University of Mississippi.

Dufrene said he wants to give students more online options and opportunities. He wants to look at the choices students want, because a lot of students want more online options.

Dufrene said he wants to establish linkage within the community and he would like a stronger relationship between the community and campus. Dufrene said Ivy Tech and University of Louisville are competitive colleges near our community.

Kenneth Harris, associate professor of business management, said Dufrene is always open to other people’s ideas and does not put just the bare minimum toward what he is doing.

Dufrene said he enjoys the IUS campus. The area where IU Southeast is located is a great area to live in and there are many amenities surrounding it, he said.

“IU Southeast has the finest faculty and staff,” Dufrene said.

Dufrene said he is “having a blast” in his new role.

He said there are a lot of meetings he has had to attend, but he enjoys it. When he has the chance to help someone, he takes that opportunity.

Some of the joys of being vice chancellor at IU Southeast, Dufrene said, are to help others achieve something they are passionate about and to keep students satisfied. He said he wants all students to meet their goals.

“I live by the philosophy, ‘If you’re not having fun, don’t do it,’”