Brian Pappas has been named chancellor of the Indiana University South Bend campus effective July 1.
Pappas will replace former Chancellor Susan Elrod, who retired in December. As chancellor, Pappas will be responsible for academic, student, financial, development and administrative dimensions of the campus.
“Brian Pappas brings a wealth of academic, administrative and professional experience that makes him an exceptional fit to lead IU South Bend,” said Pamela Whitten, Indiana University president, in a press release. “His collaborative leadership style, commitment to student success and experience in fostering community partnerships will serve the campus and the region well, and I look forward to welcoming him to the IU community.”
Prior to joining IU South Bend, Pappas served as dean of the University of North Dakota School of Law. He previously worked as associate provost and associate vice president for faculty affairs at Eastern Michigan University. Pappas also served as a law professor at Michigan State University.
Pappas’ work includes research on conflict management systems. He served as a Fulbright Scholar in 2021-23 in Japan, Greece and Denmark. He earned a doctoral degree in public administration from the University of Kansas and a Juris Doctor from Wayne State University. Pappas earned additional degrees from the University of Missouri and the University of Michigan.
“I am truly impressed by IU South Bend’s strong sense of community, commitment to student success and deep connections to the Region,” Pappas said. “I’m excited to work alongside the talented faculty, students and staff, as well as local leaders and partners, to build on the campus’s strengths, create innovative partnerships and drive transformational change that benefits the Region and beyond.”
During the transition period through July 1, Vice Chancellor for Administration and Finance Andy Williams will serve as interim deputy chancellor for the South Bend campus.
“IU South Bend enjoys a strong history of leadership excellence, and Brian’s experience and track record promise to continue that tradition,” Ken Iwama, IU vice president for regional campuses and online education, said. “As he takes the helm, IU South Bend will continue to prioritize student success for undergraduate and graduate students, preparing them for careers and opportunities in the South Bend region and beyond.”
