The Kansas Board of Regents on Thursday appointed Dr. Barbara Atkinson to serve as interim chancellor of the University of Kansas.
Atkinson, the executive vice chancellor of the University of Kansas Medical Center, will assume the post on July 1.
“I’ve had the pleasure of working with Dr. Atkinson throughout my tenure on the Board, and I’m delighted that she’s agreed to lead the university during the important upcoming interim period,” said Donna Shank, chairwoman of the Kansas Board of Regents, in a prepared statement. “Dr. Atkinson is perfectly suited to preserve the continuity of university leadership, and I know that she will ensure a smooth and seamless transition.”
Chancellor Robert Hemenway’s last day at the helm of the university will be June 30; incoming Chancellor Bernadette Gray-Little will arrive Aug. 15.
According to the Regents, Atkinson will return to the medical school when Gray-Little arrives and will receive no additional compensation for her interim service .
Atkinson joined the medical school in 2000, was named executive dean in 2002, and has served as executive vice chancellor since 2005.