Penn State University has named Rob Pangborn, vice president and dean for Undergraduate Education, as the university's interim provost, the school said today.

The appointment is effective immediately. Mr. Pangborn will fill the seat vacated by Rodney Erickson, who became president following the resignation Wednesday night of former President Graham Spanier.

"Because of his current role in Undergraduate Education, Rob is the most experienced person and has the broadest knowledge regarding the duties of the provost's position," Mr. Erickson said in a statement. "I am confident that he will be highly effective in his new leadership role and keep the University moving forward."

Mr. Pangborn has been vice president and dean for Undergraduate Education since January 2006.

First Published: November 15, 2011, 10:00 p.m.