West Virginia University has begun the search for a new provost and vice president for academic affairs, according to an announcement from President Michael T. Benson on Monday, August 4. The position is responsible for overseeing all academic policies, programs, facilities, and budgetary matters at the university.
In a letter to faculty and staff, Benson described the importance of this appointment. “There is no more important hire I will make during my tenure as president than our institution’s provost: the chief WVU academic officer and the person responsible for the educational direction of the University,” Benson stated.
Benson outlined expectations for the new provost, emphasizing leadership in delivering high-quality education and supporting faculty. He also noted that future programming should align with student interests and workforce needs in West Virginia and beyond.
To facilitate the search process, West Virginia University has partnered with Greenwood Asher & Associates, a national executive search firm. The search committee will be co-chaired by Evan Widders, associate provost for undergraduate education, and Diana Davis, immediate past Faculty Senate chair. Committee members represent various groups within the university community including faculty, staff, students, academic deans, Board of Governors members, athletics representatives, and regional campuses.
“Choosing a provost is a monumental responsibility and should be a collaborative process. Your input is invaluable in helping us shape the qualities, experiences, knowledge, skills and characteristics for this vital position,” Benson wrote.
Faculty, staff, and students are encouraged to participate by completing a survey developed with Greenwood Asher & Associates about qualifications they seek in candidates. The survey deadline is Monday, August 18. In addition to the survey (https://provost.wvu.edu/provost-search), listening sessions will be organized so community members can provide feedback that will inform candidate recruitment and evaluation.
The schedule for these sessions will be posted on the university’s provost website and announced through ENews soon.
“I encourage each of you to get involved in the process. Your input and viewpoints are welcomed and valued,” Benson said.
He added that updates on the selection process would be shared over coming weeks as West Virginia University moves forward with identifying its next chief academic officer.
