KINGSTON, R.I. -- June 12, 2003, -- Dennis Stark, 65, of Pawtucket, has announced his retirement from the University of Rhode Island, effective Sept. 1, 2003. Since March 1999, Stark has been vice president for Business & Finance.

In that role, he has served as chief financial officer and has reporting to him the audit, budget, business services, controller, and human resources departments, as well as the Conference Office, four Enterprise Funds, the Boss Arena, parking services, the Ryan Center, and the W. Alton Jones Conference Center.

In announcing his plans, Stark noted that this is his second retirement. Prior to joining higher education, he was chief financial officer of four banks, including Old Stone from 1967 to l986.

Among his many accomplishments is the successful adoption of new Government Accounting Standards Board requirements for full accrual accounting as well as recording of all fixed assets and accumulated depreciation.

"Dennis has brought imagination and creativity to the management of the University," said President Robert L. Carothers. "All of us wish him well in his future endeavors."

Carothers expressed his appreciation for Stark’s many contributions to URI, noting specifically the successful adoption of full accrual accounting procedures, construction and operation of the Ryan Center and Boss Arena, and innovative financing plans for numerous other capital projects.

"I’m thankful for the support of my staff and colleagues and the opportunity to work with President Carothers as part of his senior management team," said Stark.

The University will appoint a search committee to seek candidates for the position.