The Mississippi University for Women has appointed a new provost. Dr. Scott Tollison has been named provost and vice president of academic affairs at The W. Tollison will begin his new duties on July 1, 2019. The appointment is subject to approval by the Board of Trustees of the State Institutions of Higher Learning.
“The W is fortunate indeed to have Dr. Scott Tollison serve as provost and vice president for academic affairs,” said Nora Miller, President of The W. “His experience, background, and skills have proved to be an excellent fit for this position, and he will put these to use in the advancement of the vision, mission, and principles of The W.”
Tollison, who has served in an interim capacity since 2018, was one of three finalists named by the Provost Search Committee following a national search. Finalists participated in campus visits and open forums to faculty, staff, and administration. The search committee reconvened to consider evaluations and input before submitting a summary to President Miller. Dr. David Brooking, director of the Student Success Center and Title III Project, led the campus search committee.
“The opportunity to make a contribution to The W’s incredible team of faculty, staff and students is the greatest honor of my professional career. It is a privilege that I accept with great enthusiasm and a deep sense of appreciation,” said Tollison.
Tollison served as the dean of the College of Business and Professional Studies from 2012-2018. Prior to being named dean, he was business chair for three years. Under the guidance of Tollison, the college had a 33% enrollment growth and a 54% increase in the number of degrees awarded. He was instrumental in establishing the Health Care Management program and Master of Business Administration Program.
Tollison, a West Point native, holds an undergraduate and a master’s degree in business information systems from Mississippi State University. He received his doctoral degree from MSU in 2009.
