News Summary
Providence College has appointed Dr. Thomas Smith as the new provost and senior vice president for academic affairs, effective July 1. After a thorough national search attracting nearly 90 applicants, Dr. Smith transitions from the Catholic University of America, where he served as Dean of the School of Arts and Sciences. With over two decades of academic leadership experience, his appointment aims to enhance academic standards and address inclusivity issues at the college, particularly concerning the LGBTQ+ community.
Providence, Rhode Island – Providence College has appointed Dr. Thomas Smith as its new provost and senior vice president for academic affairs, effective July 1. The decision followed a national search that attracted nearly 90 applicants, indicating a strong interest in the position within the higher education community. Dr. Smith joins Providence College from the Catholic University of America (CUA), where he has served as the Dean of the School of Arts and Sciences since 2020.
Dr. Smith is also a professor in the Department of Politics at CUA, contributing a wealth of academic experience and leadership skills that will benefit Providence College in its ongoing development. His career includes more than two decades in various influential roles at Villanova University, beginning in 2000 as an assistant professor of political science. Over the years, he played key roles including the Founding Chair of the Department of Humanities, Associate Dean for Humanities, and Director of the University Honors Program. This extensive background positions him well to advance academic standards and foster an inclusive environment at Providence College.
In terms of his educational credentials, Dr. Smith holds a bachelor’s degree from Georgetown University, a master’s degree from CUA, and a Ph.D. from the University of Notre Dame. His scholarly and administrative experiences are expected to guide Providence College as it navigates current challenges, particularly regarding inclusivity and diversity.
Dr. Smith’s appointment comes at a time when the college is addressing pressing issues surrounding inclusivity, specifically regarding the LGBTQ+ community on campus. The previous provost, Dr. Sean Reid, resigned shortly before this appointment; reports suggest that his departure was connected to conflicts over how inclusivity issues were being handled at the institution. Dr. Smith’s leadership will play a crucial role in steering discussions and actions related to these matters going forward.
During the search process, Dr. Smith reportedly appreciated the warmth and pride shown by the Providence College community, often referred to as the Friar family. His anticipation for the role reflects a desire to build upon the college’s commitment to education excellence and strong community values.
As Dr. Smith prepares to transition into his new role, stakeholders at Providence College are hopeful that his diverse expertise will lead to meaningful advancements in both academic affairs and cultural inclusivity within the college community. The appointment represents a significant change for the institution, as it aims to balance its academic mission with the evolving needs of its student body.
Providence College is a Catholic institution that prioritizes the liberal arts and is committed to fostering a vibrant, inclusive educational environment. With Dr. Smith’s rich background in academia and leadership, the college looks forward to a new direction that aligns with its core values while responding to the contemporary challenges faced in higher education.
In conclusion, Dr. Thomas Smith’s appointment as provost signals a pivotal moment for Providence College, reinforcing its focus on both academic stature and inclusivity. As he steps into this role, the community anticipates new initiatives and policies that will shape the future of the college.
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