Kevin McFarland, PhD, has been named interim vice provost for academic affairs; a position created to provide critical support in the Office of the Provost while Joan Saab, PhD, serves in her dual role of executive vice provost for academic affairs and interim dean of the faculty for Arts, Sciences, and Engineering.
In this interim role, McFarland, who is the Dr. Steven Chu Professor of Physics at the University of Rochester, will join an existing team responsible for academic strategic planning, accreditation, assessment, policies related to academic personnel, oversight of faculty tenure and promotion process, leadership of faculty development programs, and recognition of faculty scholarship.
Provost David Figlio says he appreciates the qualities that McFarland will bring to the interim position. “During my time as provost, and even before, I have deeply appreciated the knowledge, insights, creativity, and sense of collaboration that Kevin brings to his work,” says Figlio. “I look forward to him bringing those attributes to support our academic affairs.”
McFarland has previously served in leadership roles at the University, including four years as Faculty Senate co-chair and as chair of the University Committee on Tenure and Privileges.
“One of the highlights of my time in the Faculty Senate has been getting to know and work with so many of my faculty colleagues at this University,” says McFarland. “I’m excited for this opportunity to work with the team in the Provost’s Office to support our amazing faculty in their teaching, scholarship, and service to the University.”
Please join us in welcoming Kevin to Office of the Provost and this essential role.