After six months of being without, the University has a new primary lawyer.
University President Richard Lariviere hired Loren “Randy” Geller as the new general counsel and announced his appointment to University faculty and staff through e-mail on Oct. 6; however, news of Geller’s appointment finally reached the public this week.
“He has proven experience in all aspects of higher education law, and a deep appreciation of the University of Oregon,” Lariviere wrote.
Loren “Randy” Geller, whose employment began on Oct. 15, was promoted after serving as deputy general counsel under the former general counsel, Melinda Grier, who was reassigned to teaching in the law school following the controversial $2.3 million buyout of former athletic director Mike Bellotti.
The buyout came after it was revealed that Bellotti had only a handshake contract between him, former University President Dave Frohnmayer and the University.
After the buyout, Lariviere pledged that transparency at the University would become a priority and created a public records office, in which Elizabeth Denecke was recently appointed as the first ever public records officer.
Geller’s appointment comes after a nationwide search and selection by a committee, which was chaired by Margaret Paris, dean of the law school.
“He was determined to be the most qualified candidate for the position,” University spokesperson Julie Brown said.
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