Aaron Mitchell has been named Wichita State University’s senior vice president for administration, finance and operations, effective Sunday, Aug. 18.

Previously serving as associate vice president for financial services at Montana State University since 2019, Mitchell brings Wichita State more than two decades of experience, including 14 years in financial management and leadership positions in high-growth local government and higher education institutions.

“I am both humbled and excited to be named the next senior vice president for administration, finance and operations at Wichita State University,” Mitchell said. “I am ready to hit the ground running to help WSU sustain its impressive growth and to achieve its goal of becoming an R1 research institution while continuing to improve the educational outcomes for first-generation students.”

Mitchell replaces Werner Golling, who announced his retirement earlier this year. A national search was conducted with Isaacson, Miller and a search committee made up of stakeholders across the university. Mitchell was selected out of three finalists, who all held public forums on campus.

At Wichita State, Mitchell will help the university continue in its growth as Kansas’ only urban public research university, with research funding topping $400 million every year.

"Dr. Mitchell’s extensive experience in higher education – particularly at public research institutions – positions him to be a transformative leader for Wichita State,” said Wichita State President Rick Muma. “His expertise will be crucial as we navigate the future, driving innovation and excellence. With his guidance, we are confident in realizing our full potential and achieving new heights as a leading urban, public research institution."

Before serving in his role at Montana State University, Mitchell worked as the controller for the North Dakota University System’s Office of Core Technology Services and as a municipal finance director for both Watford City and West Fargo, North Dakota.

Mitchell holds a Ph.D. in education, health and behavior studies and a Master of Public Administration from the University of North Dakota and a Bachelor of Science in business administration and accounting from North Dakota State University. Mitchell is also a Certified Public Accountant in Montana and North Dakota.

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Wichita State University is Kansas' only urban public research university, enrolling more than 23,000 students between its main campus and WSU Tech, including students from every state in the U.S. and more than 100 countries. Wichita State and WSU Tech are recognized for being student centered and innovation driven.

Located in the largest city in the state with one of the highest concentrations in the United States of jobs involving science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), Wichita State University provides uniquely distinctive and innovative pathways of applied learning, applied research and career opportunities for all of our students.

The Innovation Campus, which is a physical extension of the Wichita State University main campus, is one of the nation’s largest and fastest-growing research/innovation parks, encompassing over 120 acres and is home to a number of global companies and organizations.

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