Vice president of university relations Stephen MacCarthy will leave Penn State at the end of April to become the new vice president of external relations at the University of Arizona, according to a Penn State press release.

A campus committee at Arizona held a national search led by the dean of the College of Education, University of Arizona spokesman Johnny Cruz said. The university was looking for a creative marketing professional with experience in public affairs.

Arizona was looking to enhance its administration under its new president, Robert Shelton, who was inaugurated in October 2006.

"It was a hard decision because I care deeply about Penn State," MacCarthy said. "I've been here 11 years, and I've accomplished what I wanted. Now I have the opportunity to do new things with a new administration."

During his time at Penn State, MacCarthy's responsibilities included internal and external communications, as well as working with the Penn State Board of Trustees and Penn State President Graham Spanier and his office staff. MacCarthy implemented a "Making Life Better," slogan to improve life for students and faculty at the university.

"Building on his concept of 'Making Life Better,' he has helped position Penn State as the most popular university in America," Spanier wrote in an e-mail message.

At Arizona, MacCarthy said he will also work in governmental affairs, something he has wanted to do. He will work with Shelton and oversee communications as well as marketing, corporate, government and community relations.

MacCarthy has had experience throughout his career in various areas, including advertising, television, politics, education and public relations. He is a graduate of San Diego State University and began his career as a comedy writer for series such as M*A*S*H* and House Calls. He spent nine years in the California State University System before joining Penn State in February 1996.

"We're thrilled that we have someone of his caliber and experience to fill this position at our university," Cruz said.

MacCarthy will be missed by his Penn State colleagues, including Spanier.

"He has been one of my closest colleagues and advisors, and I will miss him immensely," Spanier wrote. "This move is a great career opportunity for him, and we wish him well."

The University of Arizona is located in Tuscon, the hometown of MacCarthy's wife. The university is also closer to MacCarthy's hometown of San Diego.

MacCarthy's son, who is a high school student in State College, is getting used to the idea of moving to Arizona.

"He's a big Penn State fan," MacCarthy said. "We're getting him adjusted to the move."

MacCarthy will start in Arizone on April 30, pending approval by the Arizona Board of Regents.