Karla Leeper, Ph.D., MBA

Vice Chancellor for Strategic Communications and Public Affairs

The University of Kansas

Dr. Karla K. Leeper was named Vice Chancellor for Strategic Communications and Public Affairs in September 2022. Previously, Dr. Leeper served as the Executive Vice President for Operations at Augusta University/AU Health in Augusta, Georgia. Prior to coming to Augusta, she served as  the Glenn R. Capp Chair in Rhetoric and Argumentation and in several roles in the president’s cabinet at Baylor University in Waco, Texas. She received a bachelor’s degree in political science and communication studies from the University of Iowa, a doctorate in Communication Studies from the University of Kansas and an MBA from Augusta University.

During her 30-year career as a teacher, scholar and leader, Dr. Leeper has embraced opportunities to harness the transformational power of education on campus and in the wider world.  She is a past president of the National Communication Association’s American Forensics Association, chair elect of the National Debate Tournament Board of Trustees, and has served her community on boards for arts, civic engagement, history, K-12 education, community economic development, philanthropic and public health organizations.

She and her husband John live on 10 acres with a collection of rescue pets.  In their spare time they enjoy traveling, attending sporting and arts events, and movies.