Published on June 21, 2018

Updated on Sep. 28, 2018

June 21, 2018

To the campus community,

I would like to share with you some exciting news about a new member of our Mizzou family. I have appointed Latha Ramchand, dean of the C.T. Bauer College of Business at the University of Houston, as provost and executive vice chancellor for academic affairs.

Dr. Ramchand is a strong leader with a demonstrated track record in higher education, and I’m thrilled to have her join the University of Missouri. She has the expertise to lead programs of excellence, student success initiatives, research, economic development and engagement. She also understands the importance of supporting and recognizing faculty who drive our scholarly activities in creative works and research, which benefit our broader community and the world.

During her time at the University of Houston, Dr. Ramchand started several new programs and initiatives. These include Red Labs, a start-up accelerator that helps launch student-led technology startups, and Sustaining Urban Renewal through Entrepreneurship, a program that connects students with community entrepreneurs who work to reduce poverty.

Dr. Ramchand earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in economics from the University of Bombay, and she completed her doctorate in finance from Northwestern University. Prior to her current position, Dr. Ramchand served as associate dean of programs and administration at the University of Houston for four years. She also served as associate dean of graduate and professional programs.

I would like to thank all those who took time to engage in this search process, including our dedicated search committee, which was co-chaired by Joi Moore, professor and director of the School of Information Science and Learning Technologies, and Marshall Stewart, vice chancellor for Extension and Engagement.

I would also like to thank Jim Spain for his tremendous work as interim vice provost and executive vice chancellor. He will be returning to his role as vice provost for undergraduate studies and eLearning.

Dr. Ramchand’s appointment will begin Aug. 15. I look forward to working with her as we support our campus community and promote a spirit of discovery and excellence here at the University of Missouri.

Sincerely,

Alexander N. Cartwright, Ph.D.
Chancellor