Psychology professor Kathryn Morris will serve as Butler University’s interim provost and vice president for academic affairs beginning Jan. 1.

Butler University President Jim Danko appointed Morris to fill the position left open when former provost Jamie Comstock asked to step down this month.

“I am confident that Kate will do an outstanding job in guiding our academic programs,” Danko said in a release.

Morris is chair of the psychology department and has been a member of Butler’s faculty since 1996.

She said in the release that she looks forward to working with  Danko, deans, associate provosts and faculty and staff during her time as interim provost.

“It is my goal to ensure that the colleges have the resources they need to deliver high-quality academic programs, and that they receive the recognition they deserve for their successes,” Morris said.

Comstock will remain at Butler and teach interpersonal communication during the spring semester.