T. Chris Riley-Tillman, University of Missouri College of Education & Human Development dean, has been selected to serve as WSU’s next provost.

Riley-Tillman will succeed current Provost Elizabeth Chilton, who will remain in the role until July 1. Riley-Tillman was one of three finalists for the job, according to WSU Insider.

“The opportunity to be a part of this historic institution is tremendous, and I look forward to learning about the work of its outstanding faculty and staff in the months ahead,” Riley-Tillman said.

Outside of serving as dean, Riley-Tillman is also a professor at the Department of Educational, School & Counseling Psychology. He also served as the University of Missouri’s associate provost of faculty affairs and institutional effectiveness, according to WSU Insider.

“Chris’s experience as a professor, department chair and administrator will be critical to his work as provost,” President Kirk Schulz said. “His role as the academic leader of our institution will require open and transparent communications with faculty … and I am confident he will rise to the occasion.”