Rhonda Longworth, professor of political science and administrator at Eastern Michigan University, has been named provost and executive vice president of Academic and Student Affairs. The position, upon the Board of Regents approval, is effective April 21, 2017.

Longworth has held this position since January 2016 and served as associate provost and associate vice president for Academic Programs and Support since 2011.

According to a news release: “Dr. Longworth has distinguished herself in every phase of her career,” said President James Smith.

“Her extensive experience and deep understanding of Eastern’s mission through her years of service in multiple leadership roles represent a defining characteristic. She will continue to be an outstanding leader and strong advocate for the university and our students, faculty and staff in the years ahead,” he said.

Three additional candidates were considered for provost and executive vice president of Academic and Student Affairs including: Robert M. Knight, University of California, Chico, Academic Affairs Diversity Committee and Academic Integrity Committee member; Louay Chamra, Dean of the School of Engineering and Computer Science at Oakland University and Ricardo Brown, dean of the College of Public Service at Jackson State University.

“Eastern's mission as a public institution providing excellence, access and opportunity resonates deeply with me. Our committed faculty, staff and leadership team serve and inspire students day in day out with their dedication and commitment, Longworth said in the news release.

“I am excited to work with them, our students and the Eastern Michigan University community in the coming years,” she said.

Responsibilities as provost and executive vice president of Academic and Student Affairs include leading over 200 degree programs in five colleges, overseeing the function of information technology and overseeing the Degree Completion and Retention (DCR) Plan, which has been developed to address both retention and graduation rates in a comprehensive and coordinated manner.

The committee search team included co-chairs Mohamad Qatu, dean of the College of Technology and Micheal Sayler, dean of the College of Education, as well as 13 other members.

Longworth’s salary for the position will be $285,000 annually.

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