January 13, 1999
In the new position, Long will be responsible for the activities of the departments of Facilities Operations and of Design and Construction Management both on the Lawrence campus. These professional service departments are responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of the campus as well as the design, construction and planning of new buildings.
KU Provost David Shulenburger announced Long's appointment today, Jan. 13.
"The KU campus is a large and complex one," Shulenburger said. "This is particularly true in our facilities areas where we are faced with issues relating to older buildings and the demand for new, high-technology space as well. I believe Jim Long will provide the leadership needed to help KU in these important areas, making sure that KU students, faculty and staff have the best facilities possible."
Long's position is new and centralizes management of the two departments. The structure was developed after careful study of current and future campus building and maintenance needs, KU Chancellor Robert Hemenway said.
"This is a further refinement of the administrative reorganization," Hemenway said.
KU's Lawrence campus covers more than 1,000 acres and has more than 100 buildings, many of which are historic. The campus recently completed a master plan that called for future development of West Campus and substantial upgrading and remodeling of existing portions of campus.
"I am excited by the opportunity to continue assisting KU," Long said. "This is a beautiful campus. Ensuring that it remains beautiful, even as it continues to grow, presents a challenge that appeals to me."
A national search for a new director of the Kansas and Burge Unions is expected. Warner Ferguson, currently associate director, will serve as interim director.
Long came to KU from Virginia Tech University in 1983 to direct the Kansas and Burge Unions. In 1994, he was named associate vice chancellor for student affairs and designated to work on the planning and construction of buildings such as residence halls. Long, a native of Newton, earned bachelor's, master's and specialist degrees in education from Emporia State University.
Story by Tom Hutton, University Relations, (785) 864-8866