Dr. Denise Von Hermann Named Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at Oglethorpe University

Oglethorpe University has selected Dr. Denise von Hermann to be its new Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, following a nationwide search.  Ms. von Hermann is currently the Dean of the College of Arts and Letters at The University of Southern Mississippi. She will assume her new position on July 1, 2011.

“After an exhaustive national search, Dr. Denise von Hermann was the search committee’s unanimous first choice to join Oglethorpe University’s vibrant community,” said Mr. Norman P. Findley, chair-elect of the Oglethorpe University Board of Trustees and Provost Search Committee member. “Dr. von Hermann’s expertise will be integral in continuing and expanding Oglethorpe’s strong liberal arts and sciences academic program.”

Dr. von Hermann will return to her hometown of Atlanta from the University of Southern Mississippi, where she is currently the Dean of the College of Arts and Letters.  Dr. von Herrmann earned her Ph.D. in Political Science at the University of Alabama and is a graduate of Washington and Jefferson College and Jacksonville State University. She has researched, written and presented extensively about the politics of the gaming industry. Dr. von Herrmann has continued to teach political science throughout her 14 years at The University of Southern Mississippi.

“I am thrilled to have the opportunity to join the Oglethorpe family as Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs. During the interviews I found the President, faculty, staff and students to be incredibly dedicated and engaged,” said Dr. Denise von Hermann. “The University's historic mission, its beautiful setting, and its plans and goals for the future made this an exceptionally attractive opportunity.  I look forward to joining the campus community in July.”

“I am grateful to the members of the search committee for their commitment, energy, wisdom and collaboration through this extraordinary process,” said Oglethorpe University President Lawrence M. Schall. “Dr. von Hermann is an extraordinary addition to our leadership team as we continue to build upon Oglethorpe’s success and accomplishments.” 

Information provided by Oglethorpe University Office of Communications