Saib Othman, Ph.D., has been named the new Provost of Saint Xavier University.
Othman will begin this role on Aug. 1.
Saint Xavier University President Laurie M. Joyner, Ph.D., made the announcement in an email to the SXU community on March 11. She stated that “Dr. Othman brings to SXU 20 years of experience of higher education.”
Joyner continued: “His commitment to SXU’s Mercy mission, strategic vision, extensive experience leading academic restructuring, and unwavering dedication to improving the student experience will contribute to Saint Xavier in numerous positive ways.”
Since Sept. 2019, Othman has served as Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at National Louis University (NLU) in Chicago.
He previously served as the Associate Provost at Marian University-Indianapolis from Feb. 2016 to Aug. 2019, and a Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences/Graduate and Adult Studies at Aurora University—from July 2013 to Feb. 2016. Othman was also a member of the Faculty Advisory Council to the Illinois Board of Education from 2009 to 2012, representing Aurora University.
Dan Klotzbach, MBA—Vice President for Finance and Administration and Chief Financial Officer (CFO)—and Mary Tiberg, Ph.D.— Interim Associate Dean and Assistant Professor of the Nursing Department—served as the co-chairs on The Provost Search Advisory Committee.
In a March 14 interview sent via email, Tiberg said, “Dr. Othman was selected by the search committee as one of the finalists to be interviewed by President Joyner,” continuing, “A number of factors were a part of that decision and included his academic foundation, career trajectory, leadership experience, professional accomplishments, and interpersonal skills.”
Tiberg recognizes that Othman was selected by the President ‘to fill this role’ because “[Joyner] believes that he is exactly what the University needs at this time: A fresh perspective, innovative ideas, a future optimism, a proven administrative and leadership track record, a member of the Chicago community, a collaborative management style, and an open and warm heart.”
“Dr. Othman looks forward to working with the SXU Board of Trustees, administration, faculty and staff to continue Saint Xavier’s legacy of academic excellence in preparing students to be informed global citizens and compassionate leaders,” Joyner stated on March 11, adding, “He has a special interest in strengthening SXU’s academic portfolio, nurturing a welcoming and inclusive environment, and fostering collaboration to accomplish challenging tasks.”
In the same email, Joyner shared her gratitude to Interim Provost Gwendoyln “Gwen” George—including her leadership and “willingness to serve” as one for the current school year. “Dr. George has made invaluable contributions to Academic Affairs and the University,” mentioned Joyner.
Joyner looks forward to Othman joining their Senior Leadership Team.
“[I] am confident he will be a valuable asset to the University as we continue to focus on strategic priorities surrounding mission integration, educational quality, student success and financial sustainability,” she said.