Dr. Joe Whitehead will step down as BGSU’s provost and senior vice president and become a professor of physics and serve as senior advisor to the president for regional science initiatives beginning August 5 according to an email from university president Dr. Rodney Rogers.

Whitehead served as provost and senior vice president for more than five years.

Rogers’ email indicated Dr. Glenn Davis will serve as interim provost and senior vice president while continuing to lead the Division of Student Engagement and Success. In addition, AGB Search will manage a national search for Whitehead’s permanent replacement and Davis and Dr. Sue Houston, senior advisor to the president, will co-chair the search committee.

“Dr. Whitehead arrived at BGSU in January 2019 during a time of difficult change for higher education and our University. He was instrumental in shifting our academic portfolio to meet the evolving needs of our region and state, elevating our academic offerings in the STEM and healthcare fields,” Rogers’ email stated. “He led the creation and restructuring of schools across campus to be more effective, including the School of Engineering, School of Nursing, School of Physical Therapy and School of Aviation. He also led national searches for key leadership positions, welcoming new deans and academic leaders, and he was deeply involved in the launch of Life Design, an effort that continues to redefine student success and differentiate the BGSU experience.”

Rogers also pointed to a recent partnership as something in which Whitehead would play a role.

“Earlier this month, the state of Ohio announced the investment of $31 million to establish the Northwest Ohio Glass Innovation Hub, which includes participation from BGSU, the University of Toledo and the five major glass companies in the region,” the email stated. “It is clear Dr. Whitehead is uniquely positioned to liaise with those involved in this innovation hub.”