December 9, 2025

Dear Faculty and Staff,

I am pleased to announce the appointment of Professor Lance Newman as Interim Provost, effective January 15, 2026. Lance has spent the last 18 years of his professional career at Westminster University, serving as Dean of Arts and Sciences for 8 of those years. As Dean, his contributions spanned both his own academic unit and the wider institution, from program and curricular development, complex budget management, and recruiting and retaining faculty and staff to cultivating external relationships, coordinating major capital projects, and overseeing institutional accreditation.

His career has also been marked by extensive teaching experience and a substantial body of scholarly and creative work, including the publication of 2 books and 20 articles, as well as contributing to the successful professional development and publication efforts of his colleagues.

Lance is willing to serve as Interim Provost through the 2026–27 academic year, giving the new president ample time to launch and complete a national search for provost. We are fortunate to have such a talented and experienced professional among our community who has agreed to step into this role. Please extend your support and congratulations to Lance.

Regards,
Beth Dobkin
President