Chancellor Gallagher appoints Kathy Humphrey as senior vice chancellor

Kathy Humphrey will assume the role of senior vice chancellor for engagement and chief of staff at Pitt after nine years as vice provost and dean of students. 

 Chancellor Patrick Gallagher announced Humphrey’s appointment today and said in a statement that Humphrey will oversee “internal and external relations, focusing on facilitating business engagement, strategic initiatives and partnerships and government interaction at all levels.” Kenyon Bonner will assume the role of interim vice provost and dean of students after working as director of student life for the past 11 years and associate dean of students for the past seven. Both appointments are effective immediately. 

Ken Service, vice chancellor for communications, said in an email that he would not provide information on whether Humphrey would be receiving a raise because Pitt does not discuss individual salaries. 

Gallagher said Humphrey has been an effective and transformative leader in Student Affairs.

“I am excited that now she will be addressing broader university initiatives that cut across issues and disciplines,” he said. “[This] will enable Pitt to be more effective in meeting the big challenges that should be the business of a major research university.”

Humphrey said the opportunity to help Pitt move forward in new directions excites her, but she will miss working with students on a daily basis. 

“I am confident that all I do will contribute to enabling Pitt to continue to provide the best collegiate experience in the world and an experience that prepares them to live lives of significance,” Humphrey said. 

Humphrey will work closely with Gallagher and Pitt senior management, including community and governmental relations, university communications and office of the secretary employees, according to a University release. 

Provost Patricia Beeson expressed confidence in Bonner assuming Humphrey’s role. 

“I am confident that Kenyon, together with the strong and dedicated staff in student affairs, will continue to support an exceptional student experience,” Beeson said in a statement. 

Humphrey said her involvement with the community will expand as part of her new role.

“Pitt is an integral part of the community, and helping to develop partnerships that strengthen our community is one of the most attractive aspects of this new position,” she said.