Open Searches

Oklahoma City University (OCU)—a private, non-profit university established in 1904 and affiliated with the United Methodist Church—invites inquiries, nominations, and applications in the search for its next Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs (Provost). The University seeks an experienced, creative, and innovative academic leader with a commitment to collaborating across the University to ensure strong undergraduate and graduate programs. Reporting to President Kenneth R. Evans, the Provost will serve on the President’s Cabinet as the University continues to implement the goals of its Five-Year Strategic Plan.  

The successful candidate will demonstrate experience in collaborative and decisive academic leadership, with an appreciation for the history and range of distinctive programs at OCU. This is a remarkable opportunity for a collaborative, transparent leader who can work effectively across units and constituencies to foster academic excellence, implement data-informed strategies, and uphold the institution’s values—including shaping and sustaining an innovative and inclusive academic environment.  

The Provost is the chief academic officer and a key member of the President’s Cabinet. The Provost provides strategic academic and administrative leadership to advance the mission and vision of the institution, ensuring a strong commitment to academic excellence, student success, and faculty development. The Provost is a central leader in shaping and sustaining an innovative and inclusive academic environment.  

The Provost reports to the President and provides leadership and oversight for all schools and colleges of Oklahoma City University (OCU) as well as the Dulaney Browne Library, Campus Technology Services, and several academic support offices. In addition to overseeing all academic programs (including innovative program development, delivery, and assessment), the Provost supports faculty recruitment and development, manages academic budgets, and ensures compliance with accreditation standards. This role requires a collaborative, transparent leader who can work effectively with the deans and leaders across units and constituencies to foster academic excellence, implement data-informed strategies, and uphold the institution’s values. 

The Provost is expected to lead the agenda and goals of the University in the areas of Academic Leadership and Faculty Affairs, Curriculum and Program Development, Strategic and Fiscal Management, Institutional Governance and Committee Leadership, Accreditation and External Relations, University Operations, and other Executive Responsibilities as needed. The next Provost will join Oklahoma City University at a time that requires vision, innovation, and commitment to the University’s mission and values.  

Further details about Oklahoma City University, the required and preferred qualifications, the leadership agenda for the next Provost, the nomination process, and the application process are in the full profile linked at the top of this page.  

Academic Search is assisting Oklahoma City University in this search. All inquiries, nominations, and applications will be held in strict confidence. To learn more about this opportunity and discuss your qualifications and interest, potential applicants are welcome to email OCUProvost@academicsearch.org.  

To schedule a conversation with either of the Senior Consultants for this search, please email a draft of your CV to Dr. Ginny Horvath (ginny.horvath@academicsearch.org) or Dr. Dan DiBiasio (dan.dibiasio@academicsearch.org).   

Although the position remains open until filled, for full consideration by the Search Committee, candidates should submit their applications materials by August 26, 2025. Finalists for the position are expected to participate in campus interviews that will include a public presentation. Screening and interviews for this position will take place in Fall 2025, with an expected start date for the new Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs in January 2026. 

Oklahoma City University is committed to diversity and equal opportunity in education and employment. We do not discriminate based on sex, race, age, ancestry, color, disability, genetic history, national origin, marital or medical status, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, parenting, veteran status, or perceived characteristics.