HANOVER — The Dartmouth College board of trustees has appointed Provost Carol L. Folt, Ph.D., as interim president, effective July 1, after the election of President Jim Yong Kim to lead the World Bank.

President Kim will remain Dartmouth's president until June 30 and continue to lead Dartmouth through the conclusion of the academic year and commencement.

Board Chair Steve Mandel said, “The trustees congratulate President Kim on the tremendous honor of being chosen as president of the World Bank, one of the most critical institutions fighting poverty in the world. We have immense respect for Jim as a leader and human being, and are proud of his contributions at Dartmouth and in the world.”

Provost Folt is Dartmouth's chief academic officer and the second-highest ranking college officer.

“We have an exciting year ahead of us, with much work to be done, and are fortunate that Provost Folt has agreed to serve Dartmouth as interim president,” Mandel said. “She will provide leadership to all parts of our campus and continue to lead the strategic planning process, which is a top priority for the board. She has earned deserved recognition at Dartmouth and beyond for her impressive record of academic leadership and innovative research. She is passionate about Dartmouth and its students, faculty, staff, and alumni. She understands our history, our people and our approach, and brings vital continuity, experience, and enthusiasm. The trustees all agree that Dartmouth will thrive under Carol's leadership through this important transitional period.”

Folt became Provost in 2009 and has been driving Dartmouth's first institution-wide, faculty-led academic strategic planning process. The initiative has enhanced collaboration and shared mission and provided vital insights into the College's assets and opportunities. As interim president, she will work closely with the faculty and the Board to ensure this endeavor remains a priority. Folt has informed the board that she will not be a candidate for the Dartmouth presidency beyond the interim period.