SCHEV director to step down

Peter Blake, the long-time director of the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV), will step down by the end of the year, SCHEV announced Thursday.

Blake has been director of SCHEV since 2012. The state higher education agency makes policy recommendations and approves new degree programs and schools within universities. During Blake’s tenure, SCHEV has produced two statewide strategic plans for higher education, as well as creating an internship program with the Virginia Chamber of Commerce Foundation and developing the Pathways to Opportunity Plan to increase access to higher education. According to Thursday’s announcement, Blake plans to take some time off before making any future plans.

“Few careers allow one to work on important issues with smart, capable and committed people on important issues,” Blake said in a statement. “Higher education does indeed change lives, and I am grateful to have had the opportunity to help make Virginia one of the best states for education.”

Blake was previously a SCHEV research analyst and also served as the state’s secretary of education from 2005 to 2006. He was vice chancellor of the Virginia Community College System from 2006 to 2012. He is a graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University and the University of Virginia Darden School of Business’ executive program.

“On behalf of the dozens of Virginians who have served on the council over the past 12 years, we are grateful to Peter for his leadership and for building a capable and dedicated staff to carry out the mission,” SCHEV Council Vice Chair Katharine Webb said in a statement. “Peter is admired across the state for being an honest broker in an enterprise with many stakeholders. As we go forward with a search for a new leader, each council member shares a common bond and commitment to the commonwealth’s excellent system of higher education.”

Ken Ampy, SCHEV Council chair and Astyra Corp. CEO, will establish a search committee, which will work in coordination with the state secretary of education’s office and others.