About the Provost
The Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs and Provost is Illinois’ chief academic officer.
What is a provost anyway?
At Illinois, the provost is the chief academic officer for the campus and is responsible for developing and assessing academic programs, managing a budget of over $2 billion, and supervising academic personnel policies and academic administration. Deans and directors of academic units report to the provost. The provost, in turn, reports to the chancellor and serves as the campus’s chief executive when the chancellor is absent. View the Organizational Chart.
The Office of the Provost ensures the excellence of Illinois’ academic programs. The office advances the university’s academic mission by providing guidance, support, and oversight to the colleges and University Library; supporting the recruitment and career advancement of faculty and staff; recognizing and celebrating faculty accomplishments; overseeing undergraduate admissions; supporting the development of innovative academic programs and initiatives to efforts to ensure student success; and managing the university’s budget and human resources.
Who is the Provost?
William Bernhard was named Interim Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs and Provost Designate, effective August 16, 2022, pending Board of Trustees approval. Dr. Bernhard’s appointment was approved on September 20, 2022, finalizing his appointment title to Interim Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs and Provost. Read more about Dr. Bernhard.