Ashford University has announced the appointment of Dr. Lori Williams as the University’s new provost. Dr. Williams will assume the duties of provost beginning Oct. 1.

As the provost, Dr. Williams will be responsible for the University’s academic plans and operations, including programs, accreditation and assessment, the academic mission, and the academic experience for students.

“We conducted a months-long search for an ideal candidate who will move us forward and uphold the academic integrity of our institution,” said Dr. Richard Pattenaude, president of Ashford University. “I look forward to Dr. Williams’ contributions in ensuring a superior academic experience for Ashford’s students.”

Dr. Williams arrives at Ashford University with 25 years of experience in education. Most recently, she served as the vice provost of curriculum development and innovation at Kaplan University. Before that, she was the executive director of the center for student success at Walden University. Previous positions include vice president of product strategy and development at Laureate Online Education, executive director of Laureate’s eLearning Group, and director of instructional technology at Union Institute & University. Throughout her career, Dr. Williams has also taught extensively, serving as a professor, thesis advisor, and mentor.

Dr. Williams holds a Ph.D. in Interdisciplinary Studies from Union Institute & University, an M.A. in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) from Saint Michael’s College, and a B.A. in Political Science from Rutgers University.

About Ashford University

Achievement belongs to all of us at Ashford University. By offering a traditional college campus as well as online degree programs, Ashford meets the diverse needs of individuals pursuing integrity in their lives and in their communities. Students may earn an associates, bachelor’s, or master’s degree online, while campus students in Clinton, Iowa may earn a bachelor’s degree. Whether on campus or online, Ashford students enjoy the same supportive community. For more information, please visit ashford.edu or call Shari Winet Rodriguez, Vice President of Public Relations, at 858.513.9240 x2513.