Longtime U of A employee Debbie McLoud has announced that she will retire effective Dec. 31, 2023.

"Debbie has selflessly served the university for decades, and her many contributions have enhanced the employee experience in countless ways," said Ann Bordelon, executive vice chancellor for finance and administration. "Debbie was a trusted adviser to me since I joined the U of A. I wish her all the best in this well-deserved next chapter of her life."

McLoud joined the Human Resources (HR) office in 1991 before serving in various roles during her 32 years on campus. She became director of Employee Development and Special Programs in 2004, associate vice chancellor for Human Resources in 2016 and most recently was appointed as the university's first chief transformation officer - designed to lead the U of A's evaluation of the employee experience during a time when it prepared to begin the classification and compensation project. The project is foundational in enhancing the university's position as an Employer of Choice.

"Debbie welcomed me to the university in February, and her kindness and generosity made me feel immediately welcomed and valued," said Michelle Hargis Wolfe, associate vice chancellor for human resources and the university's first chief people officer. "Her biggest contribution that I feel every day is the quality of the people she hired to be on her HR team. I get the honor of leading the legacy Debbie is leaving, and she made it easy. I have a great team thanks to her."

A proud U of A alumna, McLoud's expertise in leadership and management of human capital left a lasting impact on those she worked with throughout the years.

"Debbie understands the importance of acting as an advocate on behalf of the entire university community at various levels," said McLoud's HR colleagues when she was previously named the university's employee of the quarter. "She is a strong supporter of education for everyone in the HR department and also implemented solutions that ensured employees could speak to HR personnel about sensitive matters in a secure environment without fear of being overheard."

The university will host a celebration of McLoud's contributions early next year and will provide details when finalized.