By Susan Green,
Communications and Marketing
Stephen Kopp began his job as Ohio University's new provost July 1. The provost plays a pivotal role in working with the vice presidents to achieve a coordinated approach to university-wide responsibilities.
Kopp has had a very active first week, "one that involved building on ideas and relationships that emerged from meetings, which began last January," he said. "I immediately began working and engaging others in the process of shaping the priorities and directions for this upcoming year."
The former dean of The Herbert H. and Grace A. Dow College of Health Professions at Central Michigan University, Kopp is known for his inventive ideas and experimental approach to problem solving. He is a strong advocate for reform in higher education and a supporter of life-long learning.
During this year's Spotlight on Learning, which highlighted the work of Ohio University faculty, Kopp spoke about the institution's potential role as a national leader in defining what it means to be a true learning university, which in his view includes all members of the campus community.
Kopp received his Ph.D. from the University of Illinois at Chicago and his bachelor's degree from the University of Notre Dame.
He replaces Interim Provost Gary Schumacher who retired this year.
During last week's Board of Trustees meeting, President Robert Glidden paid the following tribute to Schumacher.
"Gary Schumacher rendered exemplary service to Ohio University during his year as interim provost. He was well prepared because he understands the university from the perspective of a long-time faculty member, a very successful department chair and later, associate provost for graduate studies. But it was his sense of fairness and vision for the future of the University that earned him the undying support of his colleague vice presidents and deans, and the faculty and staff as a whole.
"Gary was trusted implicitly, and in a time of very difficult budget decisions, an atmosphere of trust is critical. He set out the year to complete a number of projects in preparation for the new provost this year, and he accomplished every one of them. I shall forever be indebted to him for the outstanding leadership he gave us during this past year, and of course we wish him and Cathy every happiness as they embark on their retirement," Glidden said.
