Gretchen Bataille

Gretchen M. Bataille (born September 28, 1944) is an American biographer and academic administrator specializing in American Indian literature and women in positions of power. She was the 14th president of the University of North Texas from 2006 to 2010.

Life

Early life and education Bataille was born on September 28, 1944. She completed her undergraduate and master's degrees at California Polytechnic State University. She went on to earn a Ph.D. in English from Drake University, where she focused her research on American Indian literature. Bataille was the acting associate dean of instruction at California State Polytechnic University at Pomona. She was succeeded by John Mauceri on July 1, 2006. She also worked as a tenured professor of English. The resignation came amid ongoing tensions between Bataille and University of North Texas System chancellor Lee F. Jackson. She indicated that the resignation was the result of a decision by the UNT board, not due to any personal or performance issues. Bataille expressed her disappointment and surprise at how the situation unfolded, emphasizing her ongoing commitment to the university. She was succeeded by interim president Phil Diebel.

As of 2015, Bataille serves as the president of GMB Consulting Group, LLC, a consulting firm specializing in strategic and academic advice. She is also a strategic partner with ROI Consulting Group. She was the a senior vice president for the American Council on Education.

Scholarship Bataille's scholarly work includes a range of publications in American Indian literature, including reviews, articles, academic papers, and books. She co-authored Faculty Career Paths: Multiple Routes to Academic Success and Satisfaction with Betsy Brown and co-edited Managing the Unthinkable: Crisis Preparation and Response for Campus Leaders with Diana Cordova in 2014. Bataille has been an active speaker at various colleges, universities, and leadership programs. She is recognized for her work in programs focusing on women’s leadership.