Ithaca, N.Y. – Cornell University President David Skorton announced today that ILR Dean Harry Katz will be filling the vacant position of provost, for the time being.
Katz begins his new position on Nov. 14, a Cornell press release said. Katz starts his position as the interim provost as current provost Ken Fuchs steps down to begin his new position as president of the University of Florida in January.
Katz will act as the chief academic officer, as well as chief operating officer, of Cornell. “The provost oversees all academic programs and units of the university, other than those reporting to the provost for medical affairs,” the press release stated.
“The provost also is responsible for strategic planning and budgeting, tenure and promotion, and academic and research initiatives.”
The press release also mentions that Katz will serve until a full-time provost is named. Before this appointment, Katz said that he would be stepping down as ILR dean on June 30, 2015.
For the time being, associate dean of ILR Robert Smith will be taking the role of interim dean of ILR until a replacement is found.