Elizabeth Mullenix to serve as interim Provost following Osborne’s resignation

Elizabeth Mullenix, dean of the College of Creative Arts (CCA), will serve as the Miami University’s interim provost and senior vice president of Academic Affairs starting in July, according to an email from President Greg Crawford to Miami faculty.

Mullenix will be succeeding Jason Osborne, who will leave the position at the end of June.

Mullenix’s term will last one year, and the university will begin a national search this fall to fill the position permanently.

“Since Provost Osbourne’s [sic] announcement two weeks ago, I sought broad input from our campus community on the characteristics and expertise of the individual placed into this important role,” the email read. “Throughout my conversations, it was clear that Dean Mullenix’s unique blend of skills and experience made her the perfect candidate.”

Dean Mullenix came to Miami in 2006 as chair and professor of theater and artistic director/producer of Miami University Theatre. In 2013, she stepped in as interim dean of CCA and took on the role permanently a year later.

Throughout her time at Miami, Mullenix has transformed the CCA, collaborating with other colleges such as the Farmer School of Business (FSB) and the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) to make the program a more interdisciplinary and innovative experience.

“She is a highly collaborative leader with an entrepreneurial mindset that allows her to think outside the box,” Crawford wrote.

Jessica Rivinius, director of communications at Miami, agreed with Crawford’s sentiments.

“Dean Mullenix is a truly collaborative leader who inspires her students and colleagues with her vision and thoughtful decision making,” Rivinius wrote in an email to The Miami Student. “We are so fortunate to have her here at Miami!”

Mullenix could not be immediately reached for comment.

ruder@miamioh.edu