During the AUBG Board of Trustees meeting on February 1-2 in New York, the Board elected Dr. Chris Potts as the new Chair of the Board of Trustees, succeeding Michael D. Marvin. Marvin’s visionary leadership and unparalleled commitment have been instrumental in AUBG’s growth and success over the past four years. He will step down as Chairman of the Board of Trustees, effective February 2025.
During his tenure, Marvin has overseen a period of remarkable progress, including:
- Supporting the establishment of our innovative Center for Information, Democracy, and Citizenship;
- Recruiting high profile individuals for the AUBG Board and University Council;
- Welcoming the largest class in AUBG’s history;
- The expansion of student housing;
- Purchase of additional university property;
- Increasing diversity at AUBG, both within Bulgaria and across the region.
“It has been an absolute honor to serve as Chairman of the Board for the past four years at this remarkable university. Stepping down as Chair is not goodbye—I will continue to offer my support to AUBG in any way I can. AUBG holds a special place in my heart, and seeing how it impacts the world will always inspire me. That will never change,” said Marvin.
Dr. Potts joined the AUBG Board of Trustees in January 2024 and currently is chairing the Committee on Audit and Enterprise Risk Management. With over 20 years of international board-level experience as a CEO and Chair, he has successfully led knowledge-based software and technology businesses, delivering significant shareholder value. A proven communicator and influencer, Dr. Potts excels in strategy formulation, governance, risk management, and change management. He has served on audit and risk committees and played key roles in leading successful business transformation programs. Dr. Potts’ leadership has been instrumental in the success of companies such as Guralp Systems, Rule Financial, Rhyme Systems and 3i Infotech Europe, as well as several UK public companies. With a diverse academic background including a PhD and postdoctoral work in Geophysics at the University of Cambridge, and educational and community involvement, he is a highly respected figure in the technology and business world.
“Stepping into the role of Chair of the AUBG Board of Trustees is both an honor and a responsibility, and I look forward to contributing to the continued success of this remarkable and unique institution,” said Dr. Potts. “I am deeply thankful for the lasting legacy Mike Marvin has created through his leadership and dedication. His vision has shaped AUBG in countless ways and set a strong path for the future. I’m excited to work closely with the President, my fellow trustees, and the AUBG community to build on this foundation and help advance AUBG’s mission and strategic vision.”
“As we honor Mr. Marvin’s exceptional leadership and welcome Dr. Potts into this key role, we look forward to building on AUBG’s achievements and advancing its mission to educate democratic and ethical leaders and inspire change in this region and beyond,” said AUBG President Dr. Margee Ensign.
