FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. - The University of Arkansas has named Mike Johnson the new associate vice chancellor of the facilities department, formerly known as the physical plant, effective March 15. Johnson replaces Leo Yanda, who is retiring as director of the physical plant in December after 19 years with the university.

"We’re pleased to have Mike joining the facilities department," said Don Pederson, vice chancellor for Finance and Administration. "Mike was the first candidate interviewed after a national search was conducted. He received an overwhelmingly positive response which guided me in making him an offer."

Johnson comes to the university with experience as a civil engineer and with an extensive career in the U.S. military. His academic credentials include a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from the University of Colorado in 1970, a bachelor’s degree in business/economics from Chapman College in 1975 and master’s degrees in public works and civil engineering from the University of Pittsburgh in 1978. After more than 33 years of service, Johnson retired from the U.S. Navy as Rear Admiral in the Civil Engineer Corps in January.

"Mike was a strong candidate, who came with impressive capabilities and qualifications," said Yanda. "He received wonderful feedback from physical plant employees, and I am very supportive of the university’s decision to bring him here."

Most recently, Johnson served as Commander, Naval Facilities Engineering Command and Chief of Civil Engineers. As Commander, Johnson directed the worldwide operations of the Navy’s global engineering organization, managing more than 14,000 civilian and military personnel and a multi-billion dollar budget. As Chief of Civil Engineers, he was responsible for the community management of almost 40,000 military and civilian personnel.

Johnson has held leadership positions in the Atlantic and Southwest Divisions of the Navy. He also served as director of Shore Installation Management on the staff of the Commander in Chief, U.S. Atlantic Fleet.

"I’m pleased to see the improvements being made by the facilities department as it works to more closely integrate itself into the university’s overall mission," Johnson said. "I have served in service organizations for my entire career, and I look forward to working with everyone at the university as we look to the future and move closer to achieving its educational goals."

After a three-year organizational review with physical plant employees, UA administrators and the consulting firm of Draper/Adams, the university officially changed the name of the physical plant to the facilities department on Feb. 20.