CLARION – Dr. Ronald Nowaczyk will join Clarion University as its next provost on July 18, the culmination of a six-month search process.
Nowaczyk has a 30-year background in higher education, most recently serving as dean of the College of Arts and Sciences and professor in the Department of Psychology at the University of New Haven (Conn.), positions he has held since 2006.
Nowaczyk said he recognizes Clarion’s growth opportunities, and being part of that growth attracted him to the provost position.
“Ron immediately understands the incredible potential Clarion University has to continue its 144-year mission of teaching, research and public service,” President Karen Whitney said.
“I believe that regional state universities are the catalyst for higher education,” Nowaczyk said. “They’re the ones who are educating the majority of college students and ensuring that higher education leads to successful careers and meaningful lives.”
He looks forward to joining a team that is building on the university’s strengths to ensure future success.
“I am excited about President Whitney’s vision for Clarion and look forward to working collaboratively with her and the faculty and staff to achieve that vision,” Nowaczyk said.
As provost, Nowaczyk will be the chief academic officer, responsible for providing strategic leadership and oversight for Clarion’s academic programs.
“Ron has a strong commitment to academics and their ability to transform individual lives and communities,” Whitney said.
“I’ll be working with exceptional and dedicated faculty, deans and staff to provide challenging and relevant educational opportunities,” he said. “I am committed to expanding student experiences beyond the classroom to further community involvement and global awareness. Clarion University should be a destination for traditional and non-traditional students.”
When Nowaczyk visited Clarion’s campus, the university’s openness and friendliness were apparent to him.
“The uniqueness of the ‘Clarion Experience’ was evident in the relationships among students, faculty, staff and alumni,” he said. “In spite of the economy, Clarion is poised to build upon its strengths, and I can’t imagine a better opportunity in higher education.”
He also sensed the connection between the university and the community, a relationship that is of particular interest to him, having served as vice chancellor for economic and community development at East Carolina University.
“My role was to strengthen the university’s civic engagement with local communities. I’m looking forward to the opportunity to enhance Clarion’s relationship with communities throughout the region,” Nowaczyk said. “I believe the economic well-being of Clarion University is tied to the community, and the community’s well-being is tied to the university’s success as well.”
Nowaczyk completed his Ph.D. and master’s degree in psychology at Miami (Ohio) University, and he earned his bachelor’s degree in psychology from Northwestern University, Evanston, Ill. He has written and presented extensively in the field of behavioral science.
He and his wife, Maureen, have a 5-year-old son, Jake, who keeps them busy. Nowaczyk enjoys reading, golfing, working with model trains and spending time outdoors with his family.