Feb. 6, 2024: Bucknell’s Next Provost

Dear Bucknellians,

I am pleased to announce that the extensive national search for Buckell's next provost has successfully concluded with the appointment of Wendy Sternberg, vice president for academic affairs and dean of Occidental College. In her new role, which begins July 1, Wendy will serve as Bucknell's chief academic officer, charged with leading our faculty and academic programs to new levels of excellence in higher education.

Wendy earned her master's and doctoral degrees in psychology from the University of California, Los Angeles, after completing her bachelor's degree at Union College. A professor of psychology and a prolific academic, she brings significant administrative experience to her new role at Bucknell. In addition to her current position at Occidental, Wendy has served as dean of academic departments and programs at Union College, and as associate provost at Haverford College. The knowledge and skills she developed as a leader at these esteemed liberal arts institutions have prepared her well to meet new challenges at Bucknell, and to help ensure our continued success for many years to come. I invite you to read this news story to learn more about Wendy and her background.

I am indebted to Professor Margot Vigeant for her continued service as our interim provost and co-acting president. Since her appointment as interim last June, Margot has leveraged her institutional knowledge and deep dedication to the campus community to provide continuity during this period. We are very grateful for her expertise and genuine care, and are finalizing details of her important role during the upcoming transition. Margot will remain interim provost until July 1, and co-acting president until Aug. 1, when I return from sabbatical.

I also wish to thank members of the search committee, who were instrumental in the careful review of a large field of exceptionally qualified candidates. They include:

  • Param Bedi, vice president & chief operating officer (co-chair)
  • Peter Brooksbank, professor of mathematics
  • Josh Grill, associate vice president for University Advancement, strategic initiatives
  • Vanessa Hill, James and Elizabeth Freeman Chair in Management and professor of management & organizations
  • Anjalee Hutchinson, associate professor of theatre & dance
  • Stephanie Larson, professor of classics & ancient mediterranean studies (co-chair)
  • Mike Malusis, professor of civil & environmental engineering
  • Geoff Schneider, professor of economics
  • Jermaine Truax, vice president & director of Athletics

While Wendy will begin as our provost on July 1, she will be working remotely with limited access for the first two weeks of her service. We look forward to warmly welcoming her to campus on July 15.

My best,

John C. Bravman
President