UCU Announces New Academic Leadership Team and College Structure

Union Commonwealth University has announced a major restructuring of its academic leadership and college organization, ushering in a new era of innovation, agility, and student-focused growth under the direction of Dr. Joshua Wilkey, the university’s newly appointed Provost.
“We’re building a model that is not only responsive to today’s higher education landscape but that also anticipates the needs of tomorrow’s learners,” said Dr. Wilkey.
At the center of this transition is a new Academic Leadership Team composed of four associate provosts and a vice provost, each with defined roles to enhance key areas of academic life at Union.
Dr. Lisa Abner and Dr. Joseph Pearson, who will serve as associate provosts, will oversee the day-to-day operation and development of all academics, ensuring rigor and programmatic growth remain a central focus.
Dr. Melinda Rice will serve as Associate Provost for Teaching & Learning, a new role created to guide curriculum, faculty affairs, assessment, accreditation, and promotion and tenure processes.
Dr. Chris Gibson will serve as Associate Provost for Academic Affairs, and he will oversee the library, registrar, student initiatives, course scheduling, and data analysis.
Dr. David Williams has transitioned back into academics in the role of Vice Provost for Graduate & Online Programs, and will lead the university’s efforts to expand graduate and online programs and implement micro-credentialing programs. 
Alongside this leadership restructure, Union is also expanding from two colleges to four—embracing a structure more consistent with a comprehensive university model and paving the way for future academic growth.
The newly established College of Business and Technology reflects growing student interest and Union’s most popular graduate degree - technology. This college will prioritize emerging fields like computer science, business analytics, and artificial intelligence.
The Union College of Arts & Sciences will continue to house the university’s core liberal arts disciplines and remains central to its mission.
The College of Nursing and Health Sciences, home to the Edna Jenkins Mann School of Nursing, now includes allied health, natural sciences, and psychology programs to better reflect the university’s strong pathway into health professions.
Finally, the College of Education will expand its offerings at the undergraduate level to complement its nationally recognized graduate programs, honoring Union’s long-standing legacy as a teacher’s college.
“With this new structure, Union Commonwealth University is better positioned to support faculty, empower students, and align academic programs with future needs,” said Dr. Wilkey.  “These changes reflect our commitment to growth, innovation, and the academic excellence that defines the Union experience.”