Joan Leitzel facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Joan Leitzel
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| 17th President of the University of New Hampshire | |
| In office 1996–2002 |
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| Preceded by | Dale F. Nitzschke |
| Succeeded by | Ann Weaver Hart |
| Interim Chancellor of the University of Nebraska–Lincoln | |
| In office July 22, 1995 – January 31, 1996 |
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| Preceded by | Graham Spanier |
| Succeeded by | James Moeser |
| Personal details | |
| Born | July 2, 1936 Valparaiso, Indiana, U.S. |
| Spouse | James R.C. Leitzel |
| Alma mater | Hanover College Brown University Indiana University |
| Occupation | mathematician |
Joan Ruth Leitzel (born July 2, 1936) is an American mathematician and a leader in universities. She is known for being the president of the University of New Hampshire. She also served as a temporary leader at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln.
Contents
Early Life and Education
Joan Leitzel was born on July 2, 1936. Her maiden name was Phillips. She loved learning about math from a young age.
College and University Studies
Joan Leitzel went to several colleges to study.
- She earned her first degree (a Bachelor of Arts) from Hanover College in 1958.
- She then got a Master's degree from Brown University in 1961.
- Finally, she earned her PhD in algebra from Indiana University in 1965. A PhD is the highest degree you can get in a field of study.
Career in University Leadership
Dr. Leitzel became a leader in higher education. She helped guide important universities.
Leading the University of Nebraska–Lincoln
Before becoming a president, Dr. Leitzel was an interim Chancellor of the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. An interim leader is someone who takes charge for a short time. She served in this role from July 1995 to January 1996.
President of the University of New Hampshire
After her time at Nebraska, Joan Leitzel became the president of the University of New Hampshire. She served in this important role from 1996 to 2002. As president, she was in charge of the entire university. This included making big decisions about students, teachers, and the school's future.
Awards and Recognition
In 2002, Dr. Leitzel received the Charles Holmes Pettee Medal. This award honored her great contributions to the University of New Hampshire. It showed how much she helped the university grow and succeed.
In May 2024, Dr. Leitzel returned to Hanover College. This was her first college. She gave a speech at the graduation ceremony. She also received an honorary doctorate degree from the college. This is a special award given to people who have done great things.
