While Benjamin Allen serves as President Geoffroy’s interim vice president for external affairs, he will leave his position as the dean of the College of Business open.

Labh Hira, senior associate dean in the college, will become interim dean July 1.

Hira came to Iowa State in 1982.

He has served as professor and chair of accounting and finance and has been published in numerous journals.

Hira said he was teaching an accounting class until recently, and has been involved in numerous projects on campus.

“I have been in the associate dean’s position for a number of years, [and] I’ve handled the budget,” Hira said. “I was already leading the building project. I’ve been involved in some of the major functions of the college.”

Provost Rollin Richmond said Hira has been serving as the associate dean for several years and was highly endorsed by Allen.

“[Hira] knows the college well and has worked hard to develop the plans for the new Gerdin School of Business,” Richmond said. “He has also worked closely with Dean Allen and will continue the directions and policies already established.”

Hira said he does not plan to make any drastic changes in the college, but hopes to continue with what was previously being worked on.

“Our goal is to implement the Strategic Plan of the college and we are grateful to the state for providing funds for the building,” Hira said.

“Also, this is a good time to raise funds for student scholarships and faculty development when the new building is coming up.”

Hira said his new responsibilities will include being in charge of the overall administration of the Business College, the building project, external relations and fund raising.

Richmond said he expects Hira to take over the position for one year.