New academic head comes to WSU Tri-Cities

WSU Tri-Cities welcomed a new leader for its academic programs.

Martin Klotz, the Richland campus’ vice chancellor of academic affairs, stepped into his new role in July. He is taking over for interim vice chancellor Michele Acker-Hocevar, who filled the role for roughly two years.

Klotz came to the campus from Queens College in Flushing, N.Y. — part of the City University of New York system — where he was dean of faculty for mathematics and natural sciences. He previously worked at the University of Louisville and the University of Colorado Denver.

A microbiologist, Klotz said he likes that the Richland campus can adapt to the needs of the surrounding community.

“We have a highly motivated faculty and staff, and everyone is engaged and really trying to make sure that everything works across the board,” he said. “I hope to facilitate paths to reach these goals and contribute also to translating the strategic plan that exists for WSU ... into tasks and sub goals on our campus.”

He added that all of the academic programs at the campus are important.

“Even though this is a STEM-focused campus, this is not just rooted in science and engineering,” he said. “There are many opportunities for scholarship in the fine and liberal arts, in business, education and the health sciences.”

This story was originally published September 12, 2017 at 6:04 PM with the headline "New academic head comes to WSU Tri-Cities."