Patton to assume interim leadership role in Provost’s Office

Central Michigan University geography faculty member David Patton, who has been working quarter time for a few weeks providing leadership within the Provost's Office, will officially move into the role of interim senior vice provost for academic affairs full time beginning Nov. 1.

"Dr. Patton's skills and depth of experience position him well for this Academic Affairs leadership role," CMU Provost Mary C. Schutten said. "I'm confident that he will provide the necessary leadership to continue several critical initiatives within CMU's academic division." 

Julia Johnson, who currently serves in the role, has decided, for reasons that are personal and confidential to her, to step down from her position as senior vice provost. To aid her in her transition, the university has considered her request for a short leave of absence, and that request has been approved. Johnson's leave of absence will end Jan. 31, 2022, and she will formally leave her position effective Feb. 1.

Patton, who joined CMU in 2001 as an assistant professor of geography, brings significant administrative experience to the role in the Provost's Office. Along with his faculty role, he has served the university as a program director, department chair, senior administrative fellow, interim associate vice president for enrollment and student services, and acting associate and assistant dean for the College of Science and Engineering.