Presidential Update — Week of August 4, 2025

Dear Colleagues,

With nearly all FY26 budget plans approved and preparations for the academic year well underway, Washington State University is charting a course toward a future that is both fiscally responsible and deeply aligned with our mission.

Last Week

• Leadership updates in HRS and Finance to strengthen operations
  Last week, the Office of Finance and Administration announced the elevation of two longtime leaders to strengthen day-to-day operations and position the university for long-term success:
  • Jennifer Klein has been named vice president and chief human resources officer after serving as interim for the last year. Under her leadership, Human Resource Services will focus on collaborative, solutions-based strategies to meet evolving workforce needs and support organizational change.
  • Deputy Chief Finance Officer Matt Skinner will lead the new Finance and Business Services department within Finance and Administration as its vice president. The new department combines previously separate finance and budget functions, ensuring greater alignment between the institution’s priorities and fiscal vision.

This Week

• Yakima PharmD instruction to consolidate in Spokane
  As part of a larger effort to address budget shortfalls, the College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences will transition didactic instruction for Yakima-based PharmD students to the Spokane campus beginning fall 2026. Clinical rotations and experiential learning in the Yakima Valley will continue, preserving vital regional healthcare partnerships and access.

The reality is that our funding model is evolving, and we must respond with creativity, courage, and a shared commitment to excellence. As units begin implementing their budget plans, we will continue to provide updates and resources to support this transition on our New Chapter website. Together, we will build a WSU that is not only sustainable but thriving, one that continues to deliver on our land-grant mission with impact and integrity.

Thank you for your dedication and partnership as we move forward.

Warm regards,

Elizabeth R. Cantwell
President, Washington State University