Seton Hill University today announced the naming of an interim president: Bibiana Boerio, a former senior Ford executive, will begin the job effective Aug. 1.

While she is interim president, the university will conduct a national search to replace JoAnne Boyle, who is retiring after 25 years as president.

In a prepared statement, trustees board chairwoman Michele Ridge said Ms. Boerio is "a distinguished businesswoman and will provide keen leadership during an important period in the university's history. She has a clear appreciation of and commitment to Seton Hill's distinctive identity as a Catholic, liberal arts institution."

A native of Latrobe, Ms. Boerio earned a bachelor's degree in textiles and design from Seton Hill. She also earned an MBA in accounting and finance from the University of Pittsburgh.

Ms. Boyle said, "When you work with Bibie you sense immediately her energy, her passion and her acuity. Her business acumen will continue to help the university on many levels, but particularly as we work on campus expansion projects that will enhance the Seton Hill experience for all students."

Ms. Boerio retired from Ford Motor Co. in 2007 after a career of 31 years that encompassed corporate finance and strategy, global marketing and operations.

She was managing director for Jaguar Cars Ltd., based in England.

From 2008 to 2010, she was chief of staff for former U.S. Rep. Joe Sestak of Delaware County. In 2001, she became special adviser to Sandy Baruah, president and CEO of the Detroit Regional Chamber of Commerce.

President Barack Obama nominated her in September 2012 to become director of the U.S. Mint, but the Senate did not act before the session ended. She asked a re-nomination be withheld because of her mother's health.

She also has served on various boards, including the advisory board for the University of Pittsburgh David Berg Center for Ethics and Leadership.

Ms. Boerio was a member of the board of trustees at Seton Hill from 2003 to 2006 and from 2008 until she was named interim president.

First Published: June 27, 2013, 3:45 p.m.