The Regents of the University of Michigan commend and express their deepest appreciation to J. Bernard Machen as he completes his two-year term as provost and executive vice president for academic affairs on August 31, 1997. Provost Machen assumed the University's top academic post at a crucial time of transition for the University. He quickly mastered the intricacies of the demanding job of provost, and he provided invaluable guidance and counsel to the Regents during the presidential search. Accessible, forthright, resolute, and precise in carrying out his duties, Provost Machen earned the admiration and respect of faculty and staff, deans, and the Regents. He opened discourse with faculty on a number of important issues, including the faculty grievance process, and oversaw implementation of Value Centered Management, a major change in the University's budgeting system.

Provost Machen came to the University of Michigan as dean of the School of Dentistry in 1989. Prior to that, he held teaching and administrative posts at several universities and served as a major in he U.S. Army Dental Corps. He received his D.D.S. degree from St. Louis University and earned his M.S. degree in pedodontics and his Ph.D. degree in educational psychology, both from the University of Iowa. Provost Machen's wife, Chris, has been a strong supporter of the University and of the work of the provost's office. Always gracious, she has encouraged collegiality by frequently hosting social events to bring together faculty and spouses from across the University. She also has been an enthusiastic supporter of University events, regularly attending official functions, athletic contests, and student-sponsored programs. With admiration and deep gratitude for their numerous contributions to the University, and particularly for their leadership during a time of transition, the Regents extend their best wishes and appreciation to Bernie and Chris Machen.

Regents Proceedings, July, 1997, p. 10