Tommy King was named Thursday as the new president of William Carey University, moving up from his position as acting president of the Baptist-affiliated school.

King, whose appointment was announced by William Carey trustees, succeeds the late Larry W. Kennedy, who died in September. Kennedy had led the institution since 1998.

King has been associated with William Carey for years. He has served as dean of the school of psychology and counseling, vice president for graduate and off-campus programs, executive vice president, and professor of psychology.

William Carey also has campuses on the Mississippi Gulf Coast and in New Orleans.