Hikaru “Karu” Kozuma will join the college as the new Chief Student Affairs Officer (CSAO) starting July 1, according to an email announcement sent out on Monday, April 9 by President Biddy Martin.

Kozuma, who previously worked at the University of Pennsylvania as associate vice provost, will replace current CSAO Suzanne Coffey, who announced her retirement on Oct. 17, 2017.

“In Karu, the search committee has found a person who is thoughtful, nuanced, experienced and lovely to be with,” Martin wrote in the email. “He is known at Penn and among professional colleagues as an unusually good listener who cares deeply about education, the life of the mind in a liberal arts setting and the students who are its beneficiaries.”

Kozuma was recommended by the CSAO search committee, which was co-chaired by Dean of the Faculty Catherine Epstein and Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer Norm Jones, and also included senior staff members, professors and students.

According to a press release by Chief Communications Officer Sandy Genelius, Kozuma said “I am elated to join the Amherst College family! I am honored and privileged to be given this opportunity, and I look forward to partnering with students, faculty and staff to enhance the experiences for all who are part of the community.”