North Central College interim provost appoints faculty to new leadership roles within academic affairs

In an announcement on July 19, North Central College President Abiódún “G-P” Gòkè-Pariolá shared the appointment of Kristin Geraty as interim provost and vice president of academic affairs and that she would soon share plans to fulfill her previous duties as dean of engaged learning and associate provost. After reflecting on institutional priorities and how those priorities intersect with the duties associated with these roles, Geraty announced the following positions and updates:

• Dr. Jennifer Smith, professor of English, has been appointed director, General Education and Career Initiatives. Smith will provide administrative oversight for the Cardinal Directions Program, as well as leadership and support for staff and faculty teaching and supporting career readiness courses, during the 2024-25 academic year.
• Dr. Shereen Ilahi, associate professor of history, has been appointed coordinator, Institutional Assessment. Ilahi will provide administrative oversight for academic assessment, chair the Academic Programs Assessment Committee, and support colleagues across the College engaging in the assessment of student learning during the 2024-25 academic year.
• Dr. Suzanne Chod, professor of political science, has been appointed director, Center for Social Impact. Chod will lead the development of Center programming, in partnership with other academic departments and units for 2024-25, that aligns with the Center’s reimagined mission and vision.
• Dr. Laura Lohman, assistant provost for faculty development and innovation & director, Center for the Advancement of Faculty Excellence, will serve as accreditation liaison officer (ALO) for North Central to the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) for 2024-25.