Gerhart named WSB interim dean

Barry Gerhart, Wisconsin School of Business acting dean and senior associate dean for faculty and research, will continue to serve the school in 2018 as interim dean.

Provost Sarah Mangelsdorf announced the appointment Friday, following extensive consultation with WSB faculty and staff members in order to receive feedback and nominations for the role.

“In addition to his talent in teaching, research and administration, I’ve appreciated Barry’s assistance during this period of transition,” Mangelsdorf says.

Gerhart, professor of management and human resources and the Bruce R. Ellig Distinguished Chair in Pay and Organizational Effectiveness, says his top priority will be to continue the strategic planning process launched under former Dean Anne Massey.

“With the support of Chancellor Blank and Provost Mangelsdorf, we are all committed to the continued excellence of our MBA program, as well as the expansion of our current programs and development of new programs,” he says.

“We need our passionate community to join our efforts to advance the Wisconsin School of Business,” he adds, noting that WSB will share details about the process and opportunities for engagement.

Gerhart will serve until a new permanent dean is named. A search is expected to launch in September 2018, the traditional time period to recruit top candidates for a dean position.