Battye named university registrar

Following a national search, Karen Battye has been named the next university registrar, effective Aug. 1.

Battye, a senior analyst in Auburn’s Office of Institutional Research, brings more than 25 years of administrative experience and leadership to the position, including extensive management of the university’s data and analysis to support academic planning and reporting.

“Karen is an experienced leader who appreciates the strategic role the registrar’s office plays in the success of our students,” said Norman Godwin, associate provost for academic effectiveness. “Her understanding of data management combined with her extensive knowledge of Auburn’s academic processes ensures the registrar’s office will continue to strive for the highest standards of service and compliance.”

As registrar, Battye will collaborate with units across campus to translate student and faculty needs into improved systems and processes. In addition to managing the staff and operations of the Office of the Registrar, Battye will be responsible for maintaining the integrity of institutional and academic records, including grades and degree certifications, as well as managing residency verifications, student transcripts, diplomas, classroom scheduling and the Auburn Bulletin.

During her time in the Office of Institutional Research, Battye streamlined many of the university’s reporting processes, including the preparation of statistical reports required by federal and state agencies and accreditation organizations such as the Alabama Commission on Higher Education and the Integrated Postsecondary Education System. She currently co-chairs the university’s Data Governance Initiative, a group charged with managing the accessibility, usability, quality and security of institutional data used to support strategic initiatives.

“The Office of the Registrar is a vital resource to our campus and impacts every Auburn student and faculty member,” said Battye. “I am honored to serve our institution in this capacity and look forward to working with such a dedicated team of professionals.”

Before joining the Office of Institutional Research, Battye served as an academic advisor in the Samuel Ginn College of Engineering, where she coordinated registration processes for students and ensured the compliance with the university’s academic policies. In addition to her higher education experience, Battye also worked in private industry as an engineering manager with Emerson Process and as a process analyst for East Alabama Medical Center.

Battye holds a bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, and a master’s degree in industrial engineering from Auburn. She is currently pursuing a doctoral degree.

Battye succeeds George Crandell, who has served as interim registrar since last August. Crandell announced his retirement earlier this year after more than 30 years of service to the university.