Miami University’s search for a provost continued Thursday with a campus forum in Benton Hall led by Tom Fitch, a consultant from Storbeck Search, which is the firm hired to assist with the process. Faculty, staff and students were invited to share input on what makes the position appealing, what challenges the university faces and what qualities they want in the next provost.
Fitch said Miami has conducted two provost searches in the past several years.
“The question is, what’s changed?” he said.
The provost serves as Miami’s chief academic officer, overseeing all deans, academic departments and programs. The office is responsible for decisions on hiring, new program approvals and initiatives such as Miami THRIVE, which aims to expand polytechnic and career-focused opportunities.
Fitch said the search committee wants to present candidates with an accurate picture of both the opportunities and challenges of the role.
“This is a complex position,” he said. “It involves working with faculty, students, administrators and the state. Candidates need to understand the scope of what’s expected.”
Faculty and staff in attendance pointed to several issues they believe the next provost should address. Some mentioned the impact of state politics on higher education, particularly on what can be taught in classrooms. Others raised questions about faculty workload equivalencies, describing the current system as fragmented and in need of review.
“Don’t bring in baggage,” Fitch said in response to questions about faculty unions. “There’s a contract in place. The real question is how the provost will work within that framework.”
Attendees also highlighted changes in student expectations. University registrar Theodore Peters said those dynamics make the role particularly challenging.
“The consumer is the student,” Peters said. “We have to accept that students and their parents want to see a clear return on investment. At the same time, the provost has to navigate workload questions, state politics and Miami’s responsibility as a public university. What matters is finding someone who can adjust.”
Throughout the discussion, participants emphasized the importance of clear communication, adaptability and the ability to work across different parts of the university.
“We need someone who understands Miami’s position in Ohio,” Fitch said. “That perspective is essential.”
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After the forum, chemistry professor Rick Cage said he was glad to have the chance to hear directly from the consultants.
“I thought it was a good discussion,” Cage said. “It helps to know that input from faculty and staff is part of the process.”
Storbeck Search will compile feedback from the Oxford, Hamilton and Middletown forums into a candidate profile. The search committee, composed of faculty and administrators, will review applicants later this fall. A new provost is expected to be named sometime in 2026.
“This is a role that touches every part of the university,” Fitch said in closing. “Finding the right fit is important for everyone at Miami.”
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