Office of the Provost

Washington State University
Dear Colleagues:

Yesterday, the WSU family lost one of its most committed and respected members. Kelly Anne Ward, vice provost for faculty development and recognition, passed away following an accident that occurred on July 3.

Kelly touched so many people throughout the WSU system through her work on faculty development, as well as her years of service as a faculty member in the College of Education. The numerous tributes coming in through social media and email affirm the deep impact that Kelly had on faculty, staff, and students throughout the WSU system.

Kelly brought leadership, perseverance, and enthusiasm to everything she did, and we in the provost’s office were fortunate to have her as a colleague. Kelly had an uplifting, generous spirit that defined her as a person and as an academic leader. She made everyone around her better and was relentless in pursuing positive change. She will be dearly missed.

It is important that we all grieve in our own unique way over the coming days. For grief related resources, faculty and staff are encouraged to contact the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) at 1-877-313-4455. The program can be reached 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. More information is available on our EAP website.

Our thoughts are with Kelly’s family — her husband Gene, and children Daisy, Lucy, and Henry. I was able to meet Gene, the children, and Kelly’s sisters at the hospital last week; they are an amazing family and truly Kelly’s greatest legacy.

Regards,
Office of the Provost, Washington State University
Dan Bernardo
Provost and Executive Vice President
Office of the Provost and Executive Vice President | Washington State University
PO Box 641046, Pullman, WA 99164-1046