Dr. Elizabeth R. Cantwell has made history by being appointed as the first female president of Washington State University (WSU), succeeding Kirk Schulz. Her extensive experience as the president of Utah State University's 30-campus system positions her well to lead WSU into a new era. Cantwell is recognized for her significant contributions to academic growth, research funding, and campus development.

She holds advanced degrees from UC Berkeley, the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School, and the University of Chicago, showcasing her strong academic background. The WSU Board of Regents unanimously selected her after a thorough nationwide search that reviewed over 260 candidates, underscoring the confidence in her leadership capabilities. In her acceptance, Cantwell highlighted her admiration for WSU and her family's connection to the university, as her daughter is a current graduate student. She will officially start her presidency on April 1, 2025, and will work closely with Schulz during the transition period. Cantwell’s appointment is viewed as a transformative step for WSU, promising to enhance its mission and impact in higher education.