Former Genome Center CAO Ernie Hoftyzer's retirement is announced

Ernie Hoftyzer began his UC Davis career as a temporary staff member in the History Department, which happened to be his major at UC Davis. When the university transitioned to the DAFIS online accounting system in 1997, Hoftyzer’s career accelerated. He eventually became Chief Administrative Officer of the Institute of Transportation Studies in 2004, leading that unit for 13 years as its annual budget grew from $3 million to $20 million. In 2017, he moved to a similar position at the UC Davis Genome Center.

“I liked working in academic departments,” Hoftyzer said. “That is where the university’s action is.”

Most recently, he is finishing his career before transitioning to the Dean’s Office at the College of Biological Sciences.

“I like what we do at UC Davis,” Hoftyzer said. “We were able to grow.”

In 2016, Hoftyzer swam across the English Channel, the final race necessary to complete the Triple Crown of Open Water Swimming, which also includes swimming the 20-mile Catalina Channel and the 28-mile circumnavigation of Manhattan Island.

“I couldn’t have done that without the support of my UC Davis colleagues. As a proud alum and proud employee, I was happy to carry the UC Davis flag with me.”

Hoftyzer said that one of the best parts about working for the university were the opportunities provided and the good work-life balance. As he looks toward retirement, he encourages others to make the most of their time at the university.

“It goes by fast,” Hoftyzer said. “So enjoy it.”