Sonoma State University names new chief academic officer

Sonoma State University officials have hired a new chief academic officer. Lisa Vollendorf, currently dean of San Jose State University’s College of Humanities and the Arts, will take on the role of provost and executive vice president for academic affairs in July, SSU president Judy Sakaki announced Monday.

Vollendorf was selected after an “extensive” nationwide search, officials said. Jeri Echeverria, who’s currently filling the position on an interim basis, said the university looked at more than 100 candidates for the job. The search committee included a dean, faculty, staff and a student.

Sakaki said in a statement Vollendorf “stands out for her strong commitment to students and faculty and for her admirable track record overseeing a large and diverse college in a collaborative and inclusive manner.”