PULLMAN, WA – After a comprehensive national search did not yield a successful offer, Sandra Haynes, the current WSU Tri-Cities chancellor, has been appointed to serve in a dual role as the interim chancellor of WSU Vancouver. In addition, she will co-chair the committee that will lead the new search this fall.
In a message that went out to WSU Vancouver faculty, staff, and students this morning, President Elizabeth Cantwell expressed her appreciation for their engagement in the initial search, “The feedback from the community was invaluable in guiding my interviews with each finalist and in reaching a decision on which candidate would be best suited to the role. Ultimately, the offer extended to the top candidate was not accepted.”
Sandra Haynes will assume oversight of the Vancouver campus in addition to her role leading the Tri-Cities campus beginning June 1.
Cantwell went on to specify next steps, including forming a new search committee, reevaluating the position description, and developing a timeline for the recruitment and interview process. The new search committee will collaborate with new consultants from the executive search firm of Isaacson, Miller to ensure a thorough and effective recruitment process. Interviews with candidates are expected to take place when faculty, staff, and students return to campus this fall.
Haynes will assume oversight of the Vancouver campus in addition to her role leading the Tri-Cities campus beginning June 1. WSU Vancouver’s current chancellor, Mel Netzhammer, will transition to a senior advisor role beginning June 1.
“Chancellor Haynes has proven to be an extraordinarily effective leader,” said Cantwell. “Her experience in developing strong community partnerships and implementing focused student recruitment strategies in the Tri-Cities will prove beneficial to the Vancouver community as we seek to position the chancellor search for ultimate success in the emerging landscape. I am confident she will do an exemplary job, leading both campuses to new heights in the coming months.”
“I am excited to learn more about the unique ways in which WSU Vancouver impacts the system and especially southwest Washington,” said Haynes. “Building on Chancellor Netzhammer’s legacy in Vancouver is a significant responsibility, and I look forward to helping the campus move forward as we search for the permanent chancellor.”
Since the initial search began, significant shifts have occurred, including the appointment of a new president with an extensive network and new financial constraints at both the state and federal levels.
President Cantwell emphasized the importance of community support and engagement during this transition period in her message to the Vancouver campus. “Your continued support and engagement are crucial as we move forward in this process,” Cantwell said. “Together, we will ensure a bright future for WSU Vancouver and Washington State University as a whole.”
