Kutztown University Acting President Dr. Carlos Vargas-Aburto has appointed Dr. James E. Mackin as acting provost, effective Aug. 18.

Mackin takes over for Vargas who became acting president July 1 with the departure of Dr. F. Javier Cevallos. Mackin will continue as provost until a permanent university president is appointed.

As chief academic officer he will be responsible for oversight of academic and student affairs at the university.

Mackin comes to KU from Abu Dhabi University, United Arab Emirates, where he was provost from 2009 - '13. Prior to that he was provost of Bloomsburg University from 2005 - '09.

Mackin received a bachelor's and master's degree in oceanography from the University of Michigan and a doctorate in geophysical sciences from the University of Chicago.

Mackin, a resident of New Tripoli, owns and operates the Allentown KOA Campground.