On July 1, 2013, the new Provost, Dr. Paul L. DeVito, began his work here at Saint Xavier University. The Provost, also known as the Chief Academic Officer, is in charge of “…everything that has to do with the academic enterprise of the university, anything that has to do with education, the deans, the library, instructional technology.”
Dr. DeVito came here from Saint Joseph’s University, where he spent a large part of his career. He was a Vice Provost there for six years, and a Dean of the College of Professional Liberal Studies for seven years. He was also a Provost there until he decided to move to SXU, which prepared him to become a Provost here.
Dr. DeVito made his decision in coming to SXU for multiple reasons.
He previously worked with President Wiseman on the board of trustees, and on the academic affairs committee at Saint Joseph’s University.
He was also “…very much impressed with the strategic plan of the university, Plan 2017, a plan that, from my perspective was a well thought out and conclusive plan, that will guide the university through 2017 and beyond.”
He also chose SXU because of the tradition our university upholds. “…I am also very much attracted to SXU because of its Mercy Heritage, and the fact that the students here leave with a solid education, and an expectation of service to others.”
The level of diversity here at SXU was also a major attraction for Dr. DeVito. “The fact that we have a college population that looked like the United States is actually quite rare in private higher education, and is very attractive.”
Dr. DeVito plans to develop more programs for students, including articulation agreements with junior colleges and on the graduate level. He also plans to improve the international program, send more students abroad, and invite more students here.
Dr. DeVito’s door is open to students and he encourages students to speak with him if they ever feel the need. “I want to be able to know what the student is thinking about the university. Want to know how they feel, what they think is going well, and also I want to celebrate with them, when they’re acknowledged for the good work they do.”
“And also I want to know if things are not going well in certain areas. So it’s important that I have contact with the student, because that’s why I’m here. I’m not here for the administration organization. I’m here for the overall education of students, so I need to be with students. And frankly, I love being with students.”
Dr. DeVito’s office is located in A219, and he encourages students to talk with him whenever they may feel the need.
Robert Lachowski
News Editor