By DAVID DUPONT
BG Independent News
BGSU faculty has been informed that Joe Whitehead will be leaving his post as provost and senior vice president. In a message sent earlier this week, President Rodney Rogers told the faculty that Whitehead will teach physics and, as of Aug. 5, serve senior advisor to the president for regional science initiatives.
This will include duties as a liaison to the Northwest Ohio Glass Innovation Hub. The newly launched initiative brings together BGSU, the University of Toledo, and five glass companies to develop new glass technologies and improve glass production.
“An initiative like this certainly requires the leadership of someone with a deep understanding of our academic capabilities and a background in STEM,” Rogers wrote. Whitehead “is uniquely positioned” to serve as a liaison with those involved in this innovation hub.
Whitehead became BGSU provost in January 2019. Rogers had served as provost before becoming BGSU president in February, 2018.
In the letter to faculty, Rogers praised Whitehead’s role in helping the university navigate through a difficult time, including the COVID 19 pandemic.
He also played a part in developing the university’s offerings to address in-demand needs in industry and society. This led to the creation of the School of Engineering, School of Nursing, School of Physical Therapy and School of Aviation.
Whitehead, Rogers wrote, “was deeply involved in the launch of Life Design, an effort that continues to redefine student success and differentiate the BGSU experience.”
He has also overseen an ongoing review of the university’s academic offerings.
Glenn Davis, vice president for student engagement and success, will serve as interim provost and senior vice president, while the search process is underway.
The university has contracted with AGB Search to conduct a national search. Davis and Sue Houston, senior advisor to the president, will co-chair the university’s search committee.
Whitehead’s last official duty as provost will be at summer commencement.
Rogers wrote that “we look forward to recognizing him for his service.”
