HARRISBURG, Pa. — Marking a new vision for the state’s 14 public universities, Governor Tom Wolf on Wednesday celebrated the swearing-in of Dr. Daniel Greenstein as the fifth chancellor of Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education.

Greenstein is a former leader with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and the University of California system.

“Dr. Greenstein comes to the State System at a time of tremendous challenge and tremendous opportunity,” said Governor Wolf. “I was proud to participate in the selection of Dan as the new chancellor and I welcome the opportunity to work with him on a new vision of our public universities. We need a strong state system that provides every student with an affordable education, so they can succeed in Pennsylvania.”

The governor delivered remarks during the swearing-in ceremony at the Dixon University Center in Harrisburg. He was joined by PASSHE Board of Governors Chairwoman Cynthia Shapira and other members, representatives from the Association of Pennsylvania State College and University Faculties, Pennsylvania Association of Councils of Trustees, officials from many state universities, and other higher education leaders.

The Commonwealth’s public universities serve nearly 100,000 students, of which 90 percent are Pennsylvania residents. The students study a wide array of fields, including STEM, health care, business and more.

Greenstein previously led the Postsecondary Success strategy at the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, helping other higher education leaders to raise educational-attainment levels and to promote economic mobility.

Before joining the foundation, Greenstein was Vice Provost for Academic Planning and Programs for the University of California system. In that role, he oversaw system-wide academic planning and programs.