Provost Nancy Mathews steps down

Central Michigan University President Bob Davies today announced that he has accepted the resignation of Nancy Mathews, executive vice president and provost. 

Mathews began her tenure at CMU August 1, 2022, following the departure of former Provost Mary Schutten. Mathews’ resignation takes effect immediately. 

Davies has appointed Paula Lancaster, dean of the College of Education and Human Services, to serve as interim provost. In this capacity, Lancaster will work with deans and academic leaders across the university to continue work on priorities outlined in the 2023-2028 CMU Strategic Plan and Academic Vision.

“I am thankful for Provost Mathews’ service over the past two years,” Davies said. “I look forward to working with Dr. Lancaster in the months ahead as we build momentum for CMU and make progress on initiatives vital to our academic mission.”

Davies also said he would work with members of the Board of Trustees to position CMU’s 16th president to lead a national search for the university’s next provost.