The University of Alabama System Compensation Committee approved a new chief administrative officer position at the University of Alabama in Huntsville and the appointment of Dr. Kristalyn Christie Lee to the role.

UAH president Dr. Chuck Carr presented the item and said the CAO position was created by dividing duties formerly assigned to the university’s vice president for finance and administration. Carr proposed a salary of $232,000 plus associated benefits for Dr. Lee, who will report to and serve at the pleasure of the president.

Carr summarized Dr. Lee’s background: a Bachelor of Science in microbiology from Auburn University, a Juris Doctor from the University of Alabama School of Law, and an EdD in Higher Education Administration from the University of Alabama. Carr described her career at the University of Montevallo, where she advanced to senior vice president for administration after roles including special events coordinator and associate vice president for administration.

The committee moved, seconded and approved the compensation item by voice vote; the transcript records no opposition. Carr said he was confident Dr. Lee would help implement effective management and operating procedures at UAH.

The presentation did not include additional contract provisions (term length, start date, incentives or buyout clauses) in the portion of the transcript that records this item.