Tom LaPenta has been named chief human resources officer at the University of Delaware.

CHRO named

LaPenta named University's chief human resources officer

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4:46 p.m., July 25, 2013--Tom LaPenta has been named chief human resources officer (CHRO) at the University of Delaware, Executive Vice President Scott R. Douglass announced today.

The chief human resources officer will provide strategic leadership on human resource matters to UD’s officers, faculty and staff, acting at all times as the steward of staff resources in service to the University’s mission.

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“The University is pleased to announce that Tom will serve as chief human resources officer,” Douglass said. “He brings a wealth of experience to the position and his vast knowledge and exceptional abilities in the field of human resources will be an invaluable asset as the University moves forward.”

"It is a privilege to have an opportunity to serve the University in a new and broader capacity, and to work with the talented and committed staff of Human Resources,” LaPenta said. “I look forward to supporting the mission of UD."

As CHRO, LaPenta will lead a human resources organization of about 40 full-time employees that delivers key services to the University’s employees, with a goal of excellence and efficiency.

Major responsibilities include support for the University’s research and teaching mission through high-quality human resources support and services, development of a strong team to advise University units, creation of policies focused on recruiting and retaining the best employees and encouraging development and retention of talent, and oversight of negotiations and implementation of collective bargaining contracts.

The CHRO also will take a leadership role in UD’s support for a fair employment environment in which diversity and respect for others are core values.

About Tom LaPenta

LaPenta, who joined UD in 1981, has served as interim director of UD Human Resources since February.

Prior to being named interim director, he served as assistant vice president for labor and employee relations. In that position he was involved in the negotiation and administration of union contracts and advised academic and non-academic managers on a variety of labor and employee relations issues.

A University of Delaware graduate, LaPenta earned his law degree from the Dickinson School of Law and is a member of the Delaware Bar Association and the National Association of College and University Attorneys. He began his career as a deputy attorney general in the state Department of Justice.

He has served on the boards of People's Settlement, Ingleside Nursing Home and the Latin American Community Center, and he is a former chair of the board of Goodwill Industries.

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