Valparaiso University Selects Next Provost after National Search

Valparaiso University announces Mark L. Biermann, Ph.D., will join the University as incoming Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs effective July 1, 2014.

In his role, Biermann will be responsible for leadership and oversight of the University’s academic programs as well as student affairs, including campus ministries, international programs, and diversity initiatives.

“I’m pleased Mark is joining our executive leadership team at Valparaiso University. His accomplished record of success in higher education, as well as his experiences and interests, make him the ideal selection for Valpo’s next provost,” said Mark A. Heckler, Ph.D., president of Valparaiso University. “Already he has demonstrated a remarkable affinity with and commitment to our mission as a University, and I look forward to working with Mark closely as we continue to ensure an outstanding educational experience for Valpo students.”<

As the University’s chief officer for academic, faculty, and student affairs for the University, Biermann’s primary responsibility will be to uphold the high quality of Valpo’s academics and to provide vision and guidance in all aspects of educational programs, research endeavors, and community and international outreach and service programs.

“It is a true honor to join Valparaiso University as its next provost, and I am excited to work alongside President Heckler and University leadership to move the University forward in ambitious and creative ways, even as the institution remains firmly grounded in its core values and mission,” Biermann said.

Biermann brings to Valpo more than 20 years of experience in higher education including an extensive background in teaching, research, and public engagement. Most recently, he has been Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of the Faculty at Wartburg College in Waverly, Iowa, serving on the President’s Cabinet as the Chief Academic Officer.

“There is a striking alignment between my experience, background, and interests and the mission, vision, and shared core goals at Valparaiso University,” Biermann said. “Those universities that hold true to their core values and maintain the excellence of their programs are also those that will thrive in the coming decades, and Valpo’s core goals and values have set a trajectory for success.”

Previously, Biermann served as Dean of the School of Natural and Applied Sciences at Taylor University in Upland, Ind. There he was responsible for realizing the vision of the newly developed school and working closely with administrators, faculty, and staff to define budgets, set policies, and clarify roles in order to set the school up for a vibrant and accomplished future.

Biermann holds a Ph.D., as well as an M.S. and B.S., in Optics from the University of Rochester.