Provost Muma will serve as acting president while President Bardo recovers from surgery

Richard Muma and John Bardo

President John Bardo is focusing on his recovery from November and December surgeries for a lung condition. During this time, he has requested Provost Richard Muma serve as acting president.


Dennis Mullin, chair of the Kansas Board of Regents, said: “We wish Dr. Bardo well in his recovery. It is the Regents’ expectation that Wichita State continue to pursue the strategy, vision, mission, and goals that have brought it success in recent years.” 

Muma and Chief of Staff Andy Schlapp met with President Bardo on Tuesday. In that meeting, the president emphasized sustaining momentum in enrollment, research, fundraising and addressing workforce needs to build the regional economy.

Muma will work closely with members of the Executive Team, deans, constituent group presidents and president’s staff to keep the university’s agenda on track.