William Carey University (WCU) has announced the appointment of Dr. Scott Cochran as its new provost, effective immediately. Cochran, a seasoned academic administrator with a strong background in higher education, will oversee the university’s academic programs, faculty, and curriculum development.
In his new role, Cochran will work closely with WCU President, Dr. Tommy King, to advance the university’s strategic plan, which focuses on academic excellence, student success, and community engagement. Cochran’s appointment comes at a time of significant growth and transformation for WCU, which has experienced a surge in enrollment and expansion of its academic programs in recent years.
Cochran brings a wealth of experience to the position, having served as dean of the School of Education at WCU since 2018. Prior to joining WCU, he held various leadership roles at the University of Southern Mississippi, including associate dean of the College of Education and Psychology and chair of the Department of Curriculum, Instruction, and Special Education.
“Dr. Cochran’s appointment as provost is a testament to his exceptional leadership skills, academic expertise, and commitment to student success,” said Dr. King. “I am confident that he will play a vital role in shaping the academic direction of our university and advancing our mission to provide a high-quality, Christian-based education to our students.”
Cochran holds a Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Southern Mississippi and has published numerous articles and book chapters on topics related to education and leadership. He is also a sought-after presenter at national and international conferences on education and academic leadership.
As provost, Cochran will be responsible for leading WCU’s academic deans, department chairs, and faculty in developing and implementing innovative academic programs, promoting faculty development, and fostering a culture of academic excellence. His appointment is seen as a significant step forward for WCU, as the university continues to grow and evolve to meet the changing needs of its students and the community it serves.