COLUMBIA, S.C. (courtesy columbiasc.edu) — Columbia College President Tom Bogart has announced the appointment of Dr. Kristine Barnett as the college’s next provost. effective July 1, 2022. Dr. Barnett served in multiple roles at Bay Path University in Massachusetts for the past 12 years, including assistant dean of the graduate school, associate dean of the College of Arts & Sciences, dean of liberal arts, Title IX coordinator, assistant provost of the Division of Student Engagement and Liberal Studies, and vice provost for Academic Affairs.
Dr. Bogart noted, “I was impressed with the depth and breadth of Dr. Barnett’s experience, the success of Bay Path in its transition to co-ed in online and graduate programs, the enrollment growth, and her commitment to the Liberal Arts tradition. She brings proven strategies for assessing current academic programs and developing new programs, driven in large part by her capacity to listen and engage faculty.”
Among her accomplishments at Bay Path, Dr. Barnett designed, implemented, and served as Director of the Women as Empowered Learners and Leaders (WELL) program. In accepting the appointment, Dr. Barnett noted the similarities between Bay Path and Columbia. “The WELL program is similar to the 4 C’s and the ethos of Columbia with its commitment to empowering women, which aligns well with my values and priorities.”
Barnett added, “Like Columbia, Bay Path realized it needed to add high quality undergraduate and graduate programs both online and in-person. I was impressed with the sense of optimism and confidence the campus community exudes about the future of the College and the innovative spirit that will help us achieve the ambitious but realistic enrollment growth projected by Dr. Bogart.”
Dr. Bogart thanked the Search Committee, chaired by Dr. Adrienne Oxley, and Search Advisor, President Emeritus, Dr. Peter Mitchell. “The Search Committee and Dr. Mitchell identified an initial pool of 17 highly qualified candidates from almost 40 individuals, narrowed the group to seven video interviews, and invited four excellent finalists for campus interviews. While each finalist presented significant strengths, Dr. Barnett’s leadership style, advocacy for faculty, and student-centered philosophy align with what’s best about Columbia College.”
Dr. Barnett’s CV may be viewed here.