7. Defining the Roles of the Provost: A Conversation with Patricia E. Salkin

In this conversation with EdUp Provost host Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner, Dr. Patricia E. Salkin discusses the evolving role of the provost in higher education, emphasizing the essential skills required for effective leadership, the impact of COVID-19 on academic expectations, and strategies for crisis management. She highlights the importance of building trust with faculty, balancing administrative duties with student engagement, and advocating for academic funding in resource-constrained environments. Dr. Salkin discusses the multifaceted role of a provost in higher education, focusing on the budget process, compliance with accreditation standards, strategic vision, work-life balance, and the evolving responsibilities of the position. She emphasizes the importance of collaboration with deans and the president, the need for transparency in budgeting, and the challenges posed by changing regulations and societal issues. Takeaways The role of the provost has expanded significantly in recent years. Creativity and critical analysis are essential skills for provosts. Networking and understanding institutional culture are key for aspiring provosts. Crisis management requires strong communication and teamwork. Provosts should maintain transparency and open dialogue with faculty.