Get to know Towson University's new Provost

December 11, 2018

An experienced leader who was engaging, relatable and forthright in her answers at a campus forum last week, Dr. Melanie Perreault on Tuesday was introduced by Towson University President Kim Schatzel as TU's next provost.

Dr. Perreault comes to TU from Buffalo State College in the State University of New York system, but also has ties to the University System of Maryland, having worked previously at Salisbury University.

“I already knew Towson University was an outstanding institution, but after visiting the campus and meeting so many faculty, staff, and students I am even more pleased to have the opportunity to join the campus community," Perreault said.

The Provost is the Chief Academic Officer leading the academic vision in support of the university’s mission. The provost is the second-in-authority at the university and responsible for leading the implementation of the university’s strategic plan.

Dr. Perreault begins her appointment on February 18, 2019.

"I am both pleased and proud of the participation of our Towson University community in this university-wide process over the last several months," President Schatzel said in her announcement.

Dr. Perreault brings more than 21 years of experience in higher education to the role as both a member of the faculty and administration. Since 2015, she's been the provost and vice president of academic affairs at Buffalo State College.

At Buffalo State, some of the efforts lead by Dr. Perreault included the development of the institution’s strategic plan, creation of the Office of Institutional Effectiveness, establishment of a new program that expanded funding opportunities for students to engage in faculty-led undergraduate research, and creation of the Diversity Faculty Fellows Program to assist in diversifying the professoriate through ABD/post-doctoral fellowship programs. Dr. Perreault also served as associate provost at Salisbury University, leading the institution’s strategic planning and accreditation efforts. Dr. Perreault received a B.A. in history from Lawrence University and a Ph.D. in colonial American history from The College of William and Mary.

President Schatzel praised the provost search committee for their efforts.

"The aim was to bring in a new provost to advance the strengths of our faculty in teaching, scholarly and creative work leadership, as well as to foster a highly diverse and inclusive university community that is supportive of the highest quality student experience, academic excellence, distinguished and pioneering scholarship, and impactful community engagement. As the university’s executive vice president, the role also serves as the university’s second-in-authority responsible for TU’s future success," President Schatzel said. "The search committee and process confirmed that Dr. Perreault fulfills all of those capabilities and qualities."

President Schatzel also thanked Dr. Dave Vanko, Dean of the Fisher College of Science and Mathematics, for his leadership over the past several months in his role as the acting provost.