After six “amazing years,” Andrew Hippisley, the dean of the Fairmount College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, announced that he will be leaving Wichita State University, according to an email sent to LAS faculty and staff Wednesday morning.
“It is with mixed feelings that I am writing to let you know that I will be leaving WSU,” Hippisley wrote. “These have been a very special six years for me.”
Hippisley has accepted a role with the University of Texas at Arlington as the vice provost for academic affairs. According to the email, he will begin at the Texas college on July 3.
In the past, Hippisley has applied for positions at other universities without success. In 2021, Hippisley was a finalist for a provost position at Idaho State University, and in 2023 was a finalist for a dean position at Kansas State University.
Hippisley said it has been his honor to serve as the dean for LAS, the university’s largest college. He credited the faculty and staff of the college for continuously supporting the school of study and its students.
“Our college is the university’s largest college, its intellectual heart and educational foundation,” Hippisley wrote. “That wouldn’t be possible without each and every one of you and your great efforts in sustaining and advancing the liberal arts mission of the college through excellence in research, scholarship and teaching.”
Hippisley said the search for someone to fill the position permanently will begin in “due course.” David Eichhorn, the associate dean for faculty development and research, will serve as the interim dean until a successor is selected.
Editor’s Note: This story has been updated to include information regarding David Eichhorn being made interim dean.
