Arash Mafi named as KU’s new provost

Arash Mafi spoke about with KUJH about his vision for KU earlier this month.

Arash Mafi has been named the new Provost and Chief Academic Officer for the University of Kansas, Chancellor Douglas Girod announced in a press release on Thursday.

Mafi was also named as the new executive vice chancellor for the Lawrence and Edwards campuses.

He was one of four finalists named for the position after Barbara Bichelmeyer decided to step away from the position after 6 years and return to faculty work. He has been at KU since 2023, when he took over as executive dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

“Arash has distinguished himself as a thoughtful and effective leader, and his experience leading the college positions him to immediately advance ongoing initiatives while also shaping new strategies for the future,” Girod said.

According to Girod, Mafi has navigated budget challenges, enhanced student needs, expanded research, and strengthened partnerships across KU’s campuses.

Girod also confirmed that Jennifer Roberts, current senior vice provost of academic affairs, will become the new executive dean of the college.

Roberts has worked in many different positions throughout KU, serving as geology department chair, vice provost of graduate studies, and senior vice provost of academic affairs.