The Brief Dr. Elizabeth "Betsy" R. Cantwell has been named the 12th president of Washington State University, becoming the first female president of the institution. Cantwell, currently president of Utah State University’s 30-campus system, has extensive experience in academic growth, research funding and campus development. Washington State University announced Dr. Elizabeth "Betsy" R. Cantwell as the university’s next president, marking the first time a woman will hold the role. Elizabeth "Betsy" Cantwell has been selected as the 12th president of Washington State University — and the first woman to serve in the role. Featured articleThe Source: Information for this story came from a Washington State University press release.