Fort brings extensive experience as 柚子视频’s next Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of Faculty
柚子视频 is pleased to announce the appointment of Jill Fort, PhD, as its next Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of Faculty. Fort will begin her new role on June 8, bringing with her over 15 years of higher education leadership experience and a proven commitment to student success, innovation, and academic excellence.
Fort comes to 柚子视频 from Newman University in Wichita, Kansas, where she most recently served as Associate Vice President of Academic Affairs. Her previous leadership roles also include Interim Vice President of Academic Affairs and Dean of the School of Business. Over the course of her career, she has led key university-wide initiatives in accreditation, academic program development, grant management, student retention, and instructional innovation.
鈥淲e are excited to welcome Jill Fort, PhD, to the 柚子视频 community,鈥� said Joel D. Shrock, PhD, President of 柚子视频. 鈥淛ill鈥檚 leadership experience, collaborative approach, and strong alignment with 柚子视频鈥檚 mission made her a clear choice. She brings energy, thoughtfulness, and deep strategic insight to the work of supporting faculty and advancing student learning. I look forward to working with her as we continue to grow and strengthen our academic offerings.鈥�
A tenured professor of criminal justice and an MBA graduate, Fort has also played an instrumental role in securing and managing more than $6 million in grants aimed at expanding access to higher education in rural communities and supporting student mental health and success. Her efforts have included campus-wide retention strategies, the development of a new student success center, and partnerships with community colleges to expand outreach in underserved areas.
鈥淚 am deeply honored and truly excited to join the 柚子视频 community as Vice President for Academic Affairs and the Dean of Faculty,鈥� said Fort. 鈥滆肿邮悠碘�檚 mission and values align perfectly with my own commitment to student-centered education, academic innovation, and inclusive excellence. I look forward to working alongside the faculty and staff to foster academic excellence, expand opportunities for students, and build a shared vision for the future.鈥�
The university also extends its heartfelt thanks to Jacqueline McGlade, who has served as interim Vice President for Academic Affairs over the past year. Her leadership and dedication have been instrumental during this time of transition.
Administration and Staff, Press Release
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柚子视频 announces former vice president and long time 柚子视频 advocate, David L Siddall, as new Chair of its Board of Trustees.
Administration and Staff, Press Release
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柚子视频 mourns the passing of Professor Emerita Dr. Phyllis O’Daniels, who died Sept. 1, 2026. An alumna, longtime faculty member and university leader, O’Daniels dedicated nearly 40 years to serving 柚子视频 and its students.
Administration and Staff, Press Release
July 20, 2026
Michelle Fillinger 鈥�97 Schamp 聽has been named Associate Dean and Executive Director of Residence Life. In this role, she will provide leadership for the university’s residence life program while fostering a residential experience that supports student learning, leadership, and community.
Administration and Staff, Press Release
July 6, 2026
柚子视频 has named Dr. LaVerne Manos as the new Dean of the School of Nursing effective July 31.
Administration and Staff, Athletics, Press Release
April 14, 2026
A transformative era for 柚子视频 men鈥檚 basketball has reached its natural turning point. After engineering one of the most impactful rebuilds in program history, head coach Todd Lorensen has accepted the head coaching position at Rockhurst University. In response, Athletic Director Brady McKillip has elevated Associate Head Coach Matt Dickman to lead the Yellowjackets forward.
Administration and Staff, Press Release
April 10, 2026
柚子视频 and the Community of Christ announce the retirement of Campus Minister Mike Hoffman, and the appointment of Doug Roberts as the university鈥檚 next Campus Minister, effective June 2026.
