PULLMAN, Wash. — Washington State University’s offices of Benefit Services and Payroll Services have been consolidated, and Barry Johnston appointed director, effective April 1.
Johnston, who has served as payroll director since 1979, assumes the administrative responsibilities of Benning Jenness, director of Benefit Services, who recently retired from the university after 25 years.
The reorganization and appointment was announced by Ernest Renfro, interim vice president for Business Affairs. “These offices have worked in close cooperation for many years, and we believe that efficiencies can be achieved and service to employees strengthened by the merger of the staffs,” Renfro said.
Johnston is a 1972 graduate of Austin College, Texas, and earned a master’s degree in business administration from Northern Arizona University, where he worked as an accounting technician. He was business manager for Brazos Valley Mental Health Mental Retardation Center, serving the seven county area surrounding Bryan, Texas, before joining WSU.
Johnston will be responsible for the development of strategic plans for benefits and payroll, representing WSU in matters of benefits and payroll services to all agencies and constituents, and for compliance with federal, state and institutional policies and regulations.
Martha Lindahl, a member of the benefits staff for 14 years, has been appointed assistant director of the benefits office.
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