University of La Verne Names Ken O'Donnell as New Provost

Ken O’Donnell, a leader in higher education known for his focus on equity, student success, and innovation, has been named the next provost and vice president for academic affairs at the University of La Verne. He will begin his role on June 1, 2025.

“As provost, Ken will help us maintain the university’s strong commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and accessibility to higher education,” said Risa Dickson, who is currently serving as president of the University of La Verne. “His depth of experience and understanding of the challenges facing higher education will play an important role in advancing our mission and supporting our students, faculty, and staff.”

O’Donnell currently serves as vice provost and professor of communication at California State University, Dominguez Hills, where he has spent years championing initiatives to close equity gaps, improve graduation rates, and expand experiential learning. His nearly 25 years of experience in higher education include leadership roles at the CSU Office of the Chancellor, where he guided systemwide efforts to advance student outcomes across the 23-campus system.

In his new role as the University of La Verne's chief academic officer, O'Donnell will oversee academic programs, faculty development, and strategic initiatives designed to enhance student outcomes and support the university's mission.

"Higher education faces significant challenges today, but the University of La Verne has positioned itself ahead of these changes," O'Donnell said. "By embracing online learning early, serving adult and nontraditional students, ensuring career relevance, and maintaining a distributed campus model—all while staying committed to deep learning and the liberal arts—it has created a model for the future. I'm excited to be part of this vision."

In addition to his leadership roles, O'Donnell held administrative positions at the California State University Office of the Chancellor, where he directed systemwide initiatives to improve student outcomes across the CSU's 23 campuses. Earlier in his career, he was a member of the screenwriting faculty and an assistant dean at Chapman University's Dodge College of Film and Media Arts, following a successful career as a film writer and producer.

O'Donnell holds a master's degree in film production from the University of Southern California and a bachelor's degree in French literature from Northwestern University. His combined experience in higher education and the creative industries offers a distinctive perspective on preparing students for a rapidly changing workforce.

The University of La Verne is a private, nonprofit institution with comprehensive academic and professional programs to meet the dynamic needs of today's competitive workforce. Since 1891, the university has prepared students for personal and professional success with programs rooted in a liberal education that embraces ethical reasoning, diversity and inclusion, lifelong learning, and civic and community engagement. It is nationally recognized and consistently holds rankings on the U.S. News & World Report Best Education Schools, National University, Best Value Schools, Top Performers on Social Mobility, and Best Online Programs list. It was also recognized as a 2024 Wall Street Journal Best U.S. College and among the top 15 schools for student experience and social mobility. Classes are offered at the historic La Verne campus, through regional California locations, and online. Learn more at laverne.edu