HATTIESBURG — University of Southern Mississippi President Shelby F. Thames announced today that Joe Morgan has been appointed interim chief financial officer. Effective March 1, Morgan will replace Gregg Lassen, who served in this position for two and one-half years.

Morgan graduated from Southern Miss in 1975 with a degree in accounting and has been at the university for nearly 20 years. Prior to working for the university, Joe worked in a variety of accounting positions for 10 years and served in the U.S. Navy. His first position at Southern Miss was as assistant director of Purchasing and he has been serving as the director of Procurement Services since July 2003.

“I want to thank Joe for stepping into this important role. He brings continuity to the position, in-depth knowledge of the organization, and proven dedication through the years,” added Thames.