In announcing Allen's appointment, Executive Vice President and Provost Kathy Krendl noted his 37 years of outstanding service to Ohio University. "Bill laid the foundations of Ohio University's approach to diversity," she said. "Among his many important contributions, he established and nurtured the successful LINKS program that has played a vital role in the lives and education of many multicultural students."

Allen received his master's in elementary guidance and counseling and his Ph.D. in higher education from Ohio University. He began his career at Ohio University in 1969, working in various capacities, but always as a member of the University College staff. In 2007, the university recognized his longstanding work in advising and retention by naming the new student help center in Baker University Center the William Allen Student Help Center.

Krendl said Allen's willingness to give up his retiree status temporarily was indicative of his dedication to students and Ohio University. "By all accounts, Bill was taking full advantage of the pleasures of retirement," she said. "That he was willing to put that aside in order to help us continue to make progress on our diversity programs illustrates the depth of his commitment."

Allen will oversee the major multicultural scholarship, recruitment and retention programs such as Urban Scholars, Appalachian Scholars, Templeton Scholars, King-Chavez-Parks Awards and the Incentive Awards. He will be responsible for establishing timelines, budgets, processes and goals for each of these programs as well as coordinating the work of his staff with the Office of Admissions and with the colleges. In addition, Allen's return to Ohio University will give him primary oversight of the LINKS program that he founded in 1984.

Under last year's administrative reorganization, diversity-related offices were consolidated in the Executive Vice President and Provost's Office. The new office -- known as the Office of Diversity, Access and Equity -- has brought together Institutional Equity; Multicultural Programs; the Women's Center; the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Office; Disability Services; and diversity-related scholarship, recruitment and retention programs.

The consolidated office will be overseen by a vice provost for diversity, access and equity. A search to identify candidates for this position is continuing. While the search moves forward, the Office of Diversity, Access and Equity will continue to report to David Descutner in his capacity as interim executive vice provost.