U. appoints human resources heads

The University's Division of Human Resources recently announced the appointment of two new administrators -- Phyllis Lewis as director of human resources and Carol Horne-Penn, director of staff relations. William Holland, vice president for human resources, made the official announcement for the division. "They both have a history of outstanding performance and can bring skills and talents to Penn that we need," Holland said. Lewis, who succeeds Rogers Davis in her capacity as director of human resources, will be responsible for staff relations, employment and labor, according to Holland. Davis left the University in July to become assistant vice chancellor for human resources at the University of California at San Diego. Lewis, formerly associate vice chancellor for human resources at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, has also served as assistant dean of the Graduate School and assistant director of the Office of Research Services at Chapel Hill. "Phyllis comes to us after an outstanding career at UNC-Greensboro," Holland said. "We are extremely fortunate getting someone of her stature, having headed a human resources function at a major university." Horne-Penn will replace Wanda Whitted as the new director of staff relations. In this position, according to Holland, she will be responsible for the implementation and management of all staff relations' activities. Whitted is currently vice president for human resources at Germantown Hospital and Medical Center. Horne-Penn's duties will include organization of a policy manual, dealing with grievance procedure management and the performance appraisal system. Horne-Penn, a graduate of Drexel University, has been general manager of human resources and administration for the Philadelphia Water Department. "Carol has a history of solid accomplishments," Holland said. Both women are currently members of the American Bar Association and have helped their respective communities to advance in the area of human resources. "I have a lot to learn," Horne-Penn said. "[But,] I'm very, very excited about the new position." Holland also expressed his confidence in the appointments. "Both [women] come with credentials that speak of success in the past and success going forward," Holland said. Lewis will take her new position April 1. Horne-Penn will become an active administrator on March 21.