K=-State news and Communications Services
Division of Communications and Marketing
MANHATTAN — Thomas Lane, vice president for academic success and student affairs and dean of students, has been named chief of staff to the president by K-State President Richard Linton. Lane, who has been serving as interim chief of staff since July, will fully transition to his new role on Nov. 8.
Lane brings extensive experience working closely with campus and community partners and with leadership to address critical issues. The chief of staff serves as a key connector between the President and the broader university and external communities by strengthening relationships with faculty, staff, students, governing boards, community partners and public officials.
“Thomas is a gifted leader who fosters trust and builds relationships,” said Richard Linton, K-State president. “He has earned the confidence of colleagues across K-State by being collaborative, thoughtful and focused on solutions. Whether it’s student success or universitywide priorities, he knows how to connect people and will keep the university moving forward.”
During his time at K-State, Lane has championed K-State involvement as a JED Campus, a strategic collaborative to enhance mental health and suicide prevention systems, policies and programs. He has expanded support for student mental health, food insecurity, leadership and well-being programs by partnering with the KSU Foundation. He also facilitated the re-affiliation of previously independent student organizations with the university to improve the student experience. His efforts as co-chair of the Strategic Enrollment Management committee and as lead of K-State’s Student Success Playbook work group have strengthened student retention and persistence at the university.