GSU hosts reception for new Provost
The Jaguar community recently welcomed Governors State University’s (GSU) new Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs Beverly Schneller at a reception in the Hall of Governors and enjoyed refreshments.
The provost serves as second-in-command of the university as head of the Academic Affairs unit, providing leadership for academic programs and scholarship to ensure quality, accessibility and cultural diversity in support of Strategy 2025.
Dr. Schneller comes to GSU from Kentucky State University, where she served as Acting Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs among other roles. In addition to her tenure at KSU and University of Baltimore, both large public systems, Schneller has held leadership roles at a private university, minority-serving, and predominantly white institutions.
President Cheryl Green called Provost Schneller’s arrival at GSU “a cause for celebration.”
“She brings a genuine concern and passion for faculty development, success and achievement of our students,” Dr. Green said. “I look forward to her compassion, her commitment, enthusiasm and her collegiality.”
The President of the Faculty Senate Dr. Marlon Cummings and GSU Board of Trustees Chair Lisa Harrell also addressed faculty and staff, with Dr. Cummings praising Schneller’s decades of leadership in higher education.
“Her vast experience is of particular importance to the faculty membership and we are excited about her joining our university as an academic leader,” he said.
After highlighting Schneller’s decorated resume and leadership style, Harrell said Schneller is a great fit for GSU.
“We are inviting a vibrant leader into our midst that is going to bring so much more to enhance what we already have going on here,” Harrell said.
Dr. Schneller made remarks of her own, thanking the speakers and attendees for welcoming her with open arms.
“I am very honored; I am humbled and I am excited to be here,” said Schneller who took the reins from Colleen Sexton who had served as Interim Provost since October 2021.
“I’m looking forward to working with GSU’s leadership to help the university grow even stronger and more successful than it already is.”