Chancellor Bernadette Gray-Little
17th Chancellor of the University of Kansas, 2009-2017
Since arriving at the University of Kansas in 2009, Chancellor Bernadette Gray-Little has guided KU to unprecedented success, elevated the university’s national stature, and transformed the way KU serves the state and world.
Chancellor Gray-Little has advanced KU's mission to educate leaders by implementing new admissions standards, launching a new undergraduate curriculum, and growing the freshman class for five straight years. She strengthened KU's efforts to build healthy communities by overseeing the University of Kansas Cancer Center’s application for National Cancer Institute designation and expansions of the schools of Pharmacy and Medicine. She empowered KU to make discoveries by recruiting 12 Foundation Distinguished Professors, leading the university to record-high research funding, and pursuing resources to help KU researchers excel.
Additionally, Chancellor Gray-Little led a record-setting $1.66 billion fundraising campaign and an unprecedented modernization of KU’s campuses. Under her leadership, KU completed 50 capital improvement projects totaling $700 million and secured funding for the Central District — a once-in-a-generation development project that will change the face of education and research at KU.
Most recently, in December 2019, the Kansas Board of Regents gave KU authorization to rename the Integrated Science Building after Chancellor Gray-Little (effective in spring 2020) and bestowed upon her the title of Chancellor Emerita.
Chancellor Gray-Little's legacy | Timeline of achievements »
Recognition from U.S. Rep. Jenkins » | Recognition from U.S. Rep. Yoder »
KBOR authorization of building name change and Chancellor Emerita status
Tribute Video
Wisdom. Integrity. Grace. And some terrific dance moves. Check out our video tribute to Chancellor Gray-Little.