USI names interim provost
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The University of Southern Indiana has named Shelly Blunt interim provost. Blunt, who currently serves as dean of the Pott College of Science, Engineering and Education, succeeds Mohammed Khayum, who is retiring after 32 years with the university.
It’s a quick turnaround for Blunt, who was named dean of the Pott College last month after holding the position on an interim basis since January. She previously served as associate provost for academic affairs and associate dean for the college.
USI President Ronald Rochon said in a news release Thursday that a search committee was unable to find a candidate of choice to fill the provost position.
“With this in mind, I have chosen to move forward in a direction that will ensure continued stability for the University with this appointment,” Rochon said.
USI also announced William Elliott Jr., a professor of geology, will serve as interim dean of the Pott College. Elliott was named chair of the Geology, Physics and Environmental Science Department in 2009 and associate dean of the college in October 2022.
The university said Elliott led the development and launch of the school’s environmental science and physics degree programs.
Both interim appointments are effective July 1 and will run through the fall of 2024. USI said at that point, a national search to find a permanent provost will begin.