The entrance to the Andrews University campus in Berrien Springs, MI. Photo credit: Darren Heslop
Over the past few months, a review process of the academic programs offered at Andrews University has been taking place. Deans, chairs and faculty have participated in this process. As a result of the program analysis, the Review Committee provided recommendations to administration regarding the consolidation of academic programs. This consolidation includes certain programs with very low enrollment (on average, less than four students per program) that will be sunsetted (22 programs) and certain programs that will be integrated into other programs (also 22 programs).
For example, where we offer both a BA and BS in a given area, we may offer only a BS program going forward. In some other cases, a major will become a concentration or a stackable certificate within another program, thus providing students with greater flexibility.
The goal of these changes is to provide a nimble set of programs that serve our constituency well and that provide opportunity for growth in strategic areas going forward. Some of these growth areas have been specified in the recently updated version of our University strategic plan. Others, however, will be identified as together we envision the future and the remarkable opportunities that it brings.
We anticipate that most students will transition to these updated program offerings. In a few cases where this may not be feasible, we will ensure that students currently enrolled will be able to complete their programs. In any case, the restructuring of our academic programs will go into effect with the beginning of the 2025–2026 school year.
Over the teach-out process, this consolidation could potentially affect up to six faculty FTEs (Full Time Equivalents), although it is envisioned that a number of these may be addressed by not filling positions that become vacant.
During the tenure of President Niels-Erik Andreasen, the position of provost was created. Along with academic responsibilities, a provost serves as the Chief Operating Officer with the various vice presidents of the University reporting to this position. This was the case early on. Over time, however, nearly all the vice presidents at Andrews University came to report to the president.
In an endeavor to streamline administration and clarify roles and responsibilities for this position, the Board has voted to utilize the terminology of Chief Academic Officer (CAO), who will serve as the vice president for Academic Administration. This transition will also contribute to making administration more cost-efficient. All vice presidents will report to the president.
The Board has recorded various appointments by the president. Wagner Kuhn, PhD, currently associate dean of the Seminary, has been appointed as interim CAO. Tony Yang, MBA, will transition to leading an expanded emphasis in the area of marketing, including through social media, as Chief Marketing Officer. Bordes Henry-Saturne, PhD, currently chair of the School of Leadership, will serve as interim vice president for Strategic Enrollment, Marketing & Communication. These individuals will formally begin these roles on July 1, 2024.
In harmony with University policy, a formal and representative search process is already underway for the CAO position. A corresponding process will take place for the VP-SEMC position.
Founded in 1874, Andrews University is a premier institution of higher education for the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Its main campus is in Berrien Springs, Michigan, but the University also provides instruction at colleges and universities in more than 25 countries around the world.
Office of University Communication, Andrews University
