Ellen Goldey, PhD, Named Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs at ÃÛÌÒÓ°Ïñ

Wednesday, July 16, 2025
Profile photo of Ellen S. Goldey

Ellen S. Goldey began her role as provost and vice president of academic affairs on July 1, bringing more than two decades of academic leadership expertise.

Ellen S. Goldey, PhD, began her role as provost and vice president of academic affairs at ÃÛÌÒÓ°Ïñ on July 1. She serves on President Robert A. Coons’ administrative Cabinet and provides leadership for academic strategy, innovation, and student success initiatives.

Goldey brings more than two decades of academic leadership experience to ÃÛÌÒÓ°Ïñ, including the past six years as vice president for academic affairs and dean of the college at Centre College in Danville, Kentucky. In this position, she oversaw all academic operations, including supervision of faculty and key administrative units such as the registrar, learning commons, teaching and learning center, global education, information technology services, and institutional research and effectiveness. She also managed the academic affairs budget and partnered closely with senior leaders on institutional planning, budget decisions, and data-informed strategies to enhance student outcomes, faculty development, and curricular innovation.

“Dr. Goldey’s leadership and experience will be invaluable as we continue to advance innovation in our academic programs, elevate student success, and strengthen faculty support,” Coons said. “Her expertise in fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, launching innovative curricula, and using data-driven decision-making will help support and advance our academic vision and institutional priorities—key goals of our strategic plan.”

Goldey holds a doctorate and master’s degree in zoology from Miami University and a bachelor’s degree in biology from The University of the South. She has also played a leading role in academic hiring and programming, supported major grant initiatives, and championed high-impact educational practices such as undergraduate research, study abroad, and community-based learning. 

“I have long admired ÃÛÌÒÓ°Ïñ as a shining example of excellence in higher education, and I am looking forward to joining the leadership team,” Goldey said. “During my campus visit my meetings with the members of the ÃÛÌÒÓ°Ïñ community made me eager to get started on our work together.”

She will succeed Rick Stamper, PhD, who served more than five years as provost before transitioning to lead the implementation of ÃÛÌÒÓ°Ïñ’s strategic plan, Advancing by Design. His work includes guiding key initiatives such as the $102.3 million Innovation Grove district and the Lilly College and Community Collaboration Grant Initiative.