FARMINGTON — Theodora J. Kalikow, University of Maine at Farmington president, announces that Laurie Gardner, former UMF director of human resources and administrative services, has been appointed executive director for finance and administration, effective Jan. 1.

Gardner’s expanded role includes oversight of human resources, administrative systems, facilities, budget development, management of resources and overall fiscal responsibility of the institution. She will also continue to serve on the UMF President’s Council.

According to Kalikow, Gardner has worked closely with the past two chief financial officers at UMF and other CFOs throughout the University of Maine System. In addition to her role with human resources and administrative services at UMF, Gardner has also served as assistant to the vice president for administration and coordinator of personnel systems.

She is replacing Ryan Low, former Maine state official and UMF vice president for administration, who was recently appointed by Richard L. Pattenaude, University of Maine System chancellor, as executive director of governmental and external affairs for the University of Maine System.

Gardner received her bachelor of science degree at Bridgewater State College. She resides in New Sharon with her husband, daughter and son.