Washington State University Tri-Cities Chancellor Larry James has been named associate executive vice president for the Pullman campus.
David Lemak, professor of management and director of business programs at WSU Tri-Cities, will take over as interim chancellor of that campus.
The changes are part of an executive reorganization plan announced Aug. 1 by WSU President V. Lane Rawlins. The plan calls for Robert Bates, provost and academic vice president for WSU, to also serve as executive vice president for the Pullman campus, giving him an increased role in management of the campus.
In his new administrative role in support of the provost, James will work closely with the office of budget and planning, and will coordinate with the other vice presidential areas and academic leaders in the colleges
Rawlins said the goal of the changes is to allow him more time to focus on external issues, including government relations and fundraising, as well as long-term planning for the university’s future. He said he will continue to serve as chief executive officer of the university and will have budget-setting authority, but Bates will administer the budget and programs for the Pullman campus.
A search is planned for James’ permanent successor.
