Committee selected for executive vice president and provost search
Virginia Tech President Tim Sands has appointed a committee to conduct an internal search for the university’s next executive vice president and provost, replacing Provost Cyril Clarke who will step down and return to the faculty at the end of the year.
In opting for internal candidates, Sands noted the number of highly qualified and talented individuals currently serving in leadership positions at the university.
“The Virginia Tech community’s unique character, hands-on approach to challenges, and spirit of accountability and service has historically developed strong leaders who serve the university well,” Sands said. “Providing internal opportunities for advancement helps us retain valuable talent and maintain the continuity and momentum of our strategic vision.”
The executive vice president and provost is the chief academic officer of the university and reports to the president. The provost is the university’s second highest official, responsible for instructional, research, and outreach programs as well as the graduate school, research and innovation, libraries, and student affairs and serves as the university’s acting leader when the president is away from campus.
The provost has senior management and leadership responsibilities for the colleges and academic administrative units and is involved in developing the university’s budget, allocating and managing resources, and developing university strategy and policies. The position plays a significant role in governance, curricular development, faculty promotion, and tenure and serves as a liaison with the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia.
The full position description is available online.
The search committee will be chaired by Patricia Dove, University Distinguished Professor and the C.P. Miles Professor of Science. Joining her on the search committee are:
- Lance Collins, vice president
- Thomas Feely, undergraduate student representative, Board of Visitors
- Mario Ferruzzi, dean, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
- Mike Friedlander, executive director, Fralin Biomedical Research Institute; vice president, health sciences and technology; senior dean for research, Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine
- Katie Drinkwater Gregg, graduate student representative, Board of Visitors
- Frances Keene, vice president, Student Affairs
- Justin Lemkul, president, Faculty Senate; faculty representative, Board of Visitors
- Jake Lutz, Alumni Association board of director
- Amanda Morris, chair, Department of Chemistry
- Patty Raun, Alumni Distinguished Professor of Theatre Arts; director, Center for Communicating Science
- Amy Sebring, executive vice president and chief operating officer
Contact provostsearch@vt.edu for internal nominations and inquiries. The internal application process is coming soon.