David Marshall Named UCSB Interim Chancellor as Leadership Changes Loom

UC Santa Barbara (UCSB) is poised for a major leadership transition following the announcement that Executive Vice Chancellor David Marshall will serve as interim chancellor beginning July 15, 2025. Marshall takes on the role as Chancellor Henry T. Yang steps down on July 14, concluding his remarkable 31-year tenure as UCSB’s fifth chancellor.

Outgoing University of California President Michael V. Drake named Marshall interim chancellor earlier this week, noting Marshall’s deep experience and longstanding dedication to UCSB. Marshall, a distinguished professor of English and comparative literature, has served as UCSB’s executive vice chancellor since 2014 and previously held positions as Dean of Humanities and Fine Arts for 16 years and executive dean of the College of Letters and Science from 2005 to 2012.

In a formal statement announcing the appointment, Drake praised Marshall’s qualifications, saying, “David has led major campus initiatives in academic planning, faculty diversity, undergraduate education, and interdisciplinary research. His deep experience, institutional knowledge, and longstanding partnership with Chancellor Yang position him exceptionally well to guide UCSB during this transitional period.”

Marshall will serve as interim chancellor while UC administrators continue their extended search for a permanent successor. The decision, originally expected this spring, has been delayed as candidates are evaluated.

Chancellor Yang Concludes Historic Tenure

Chancellor Henry T. Yang’s departure marks the end of a transformative era for UCSB. Having served since 1994, Yang has overseen three decades of growth and academic achievement. Speaking during last weekend’s commencement ceremonies, Yang bid an emotional farewell to the Class of 2025, saying:

“You each carry a bold and unique story, one that will stay with you throughout your lives. The same strength and determination that have fueled your ambitions here will serve you tremendously as you embark on your life’s next chapter. There’s one thing I want you to always remember, and that is how you have helped make us a better university. For that, I will say thank you.”

In an earlier statement in August 2024, Yang expressed his excitement about returning to teaching and research after stepping down, saying, “I look forward to returning to the classroom and lab … and continuing to support our unparalleled community of students, faculty, and staff to the best of my abilities.”

Yang, who earned an annual salary of $820,000, including a 24% raise approved last fall, will also vacate the “University House” provided to him by UCSB. The residence is scheduled to undergo renovations before the arrival of the university’s next chancellor.

Campus Leadership Changes Continue

The changes at UCSB underscore a broader leadership shift within the University of California system. In May, James B. Milliken was named the next UC President. At UCSB, Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Margaret Klawunn and Associate Vice Chancellor of Student Life & Belonging Katya Armistead retired at the end of the 2024-25 academic year.

Additionally, Todd Grappone will take over as UCSB’s University Librarian effective July 1, 2025, amid other key staffing transitions.

With David Marshall at the helm as interim chancellor, UCSB enters a transitional phase that will determine its next permanent leader and set the stage for the university’s continued leadership in academics, research, and innovation.

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