State higher-ed official leaving for for-profit school

Just got this.

I've edited the release so that it focuses on the Metzen stuff:

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

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December 10, 2010

Office of Higher Education Director David Metzen Leaving Governor Pawlenty’s Administration

Saint Paul – Governor Tim Pawlenty announced today that David Metzen, Director of the Minnesota Office of Higher Education, will be leaving his administration to become provost for Globe University based in Woodbury.

“Dave has been an important bridge builder and a respected higher education leader during his time with our administration,” Governor Pawlenty said.

Metzen was appointed director of the Office of Higher Education in March 2009.  The agency administers the state’s financial aid programs, its college savings plan, handles consumer protection and regulation of private colleges and runs several programs to educate young people and their parents about preparing and paying for college.

Prior to joining the administration, Metzen served as a University of Minnesota regent for 12 years and was superintendent of the South St. Paul School district for 18 years.  He was a teacher, principal and curriculum director for the district prior to becoming superintendent.  He will serve as the provost at Globe University which serves 14,000 students annually in four states and was founded in 1885.