An update on the search for your next chancellor
April 25, 2025
Dear WSU Vancouver community,
First and foremost, I want to commend the search committee and the
executive search firm for their diligent efforts in identifying four
highly qualified candidates for the role. I also extend my heartfelt
thanks to the dedicated faculty, staff, and students who actively
participated in the search process.
The feedback from the community was invaluable in guiding my
interviews with each finalist and in reaching a decision on which
candidate would be suited to the role. Ultimately, the offer extended
to the top candidate was not accepted. As a result, we will be taking
this opportunity to reevaluate the position to ensure it aligns with
the evolving needs of our current dynamic environment.
Next steps
- A new search committee will be formed, and we will initiate
a comprehensive national search immediately.
- Sandra Haynes, chancellor of WSU Tri‑Cities, has
graciously agreed to serve in a dual role as the interim chancellor
for WSU Vancouver beginning June 1. In addition, she will co‑chair the new search
committee.
- Once the committee is finalized and the position description is
updated, we will collaborate with new consultants from the executive
search firm of Isaacson, Miller to develop a timeline and begin the
recruitment process.
- Interviews with candidates will commence when faculty, staff,
and students return to campus this fall.
Opportunities ahead
The landscape of higher education is rapidly changing. Since the
initial search began, we have seen significant shifts, including the
appointment of a new president with an extensive network and new
financial constraints at both the state and federal levels. These
changes present both opportunities and challenges for our community.
I assure you that I am committed to finding a leader who will
guide WSU Vancouver through these times of change and growth. Your
continued support and engagement are crucial as we move forward in
this process, and I appreciate your flexibility during this time of
transition.
Thank you for your dedication to WSU Vancouver and Washington State
University as a whole. Together, we will ensure a bright future for
our system moving forward.
Sincerely,
Betsy Cantwell
System President
Washington State University
