Project Description
CarterBaldwin Executive Search is proud to have partnered again with Lipscomb University in the appointment of higher ed veteran Dr. Jennifer Shewmaker as provost. She succeeds W. Craig Bledsoe, Lipscomb’s chief academic officer, who served as provost for 25 years.
“The search process for our next provost was extraordinarily thorough. Our large and diverse search committee started with an impressive field of highly-qualified candidates that was pared to a few individuals who went through a rigorous interview and vetting process,” explained Dr. Alan Bradshaw, chair of the search committee and director of Lipscomb’s Honors College. “Dr. Shewmaker’s academic credentials, including notable research and teaching experience as well as distinguished administrative service, made her an exceptionally interesting candidate for the committee. But the energy and vision she articulated during her in-person interviews sealed our confidence in her abilities to lead us as our chief academic officer. We are thrilled that she will be leading our academic efforts.”
Shewmaker joins Lipscomb from Abilene Christian University, where she was dean of the College of Education and Human Services and a professor of psychology. While at ACU, she served in a variety of administrative roles including assistant provost for teaching, learning and inquiry; chair of strategic planning; executive director of the Walter H. Adams Center for Teaching and Learning; director of faculty enrichment; and director of the School Psychology Specialist Program.
“Dr. Shewmaker’s passion for Christian education, 20 years of experience in higher education, and track record of visionary leadership make her a strong fit for this very important role at Lipscomb,” said Lipscomb’s President, Dr. Candice McQueen. “She is known among her colleagues and peers as a successful, relational, and collaborative administrator whose faith is integral to her professional life, and I look forward to the impact that she will have on our students and academic offerings for years to come.”
Shewmaker holds a BS in psychology from Abilene Christian University and a PhD in psychology from Texas Woman’s University. Prior to her time at ACU, she consulted with the Peace Corps in Warsaw, Poland, and then served as director of mental health services at the American Medical Center in Warsaw and on the psychology staff at the American Clinics International in Budapest, Hungary.
To read the Lipscomb University’s announcement in its entirety, please click here.
About Lipscomb University
Lipscomb University is a vibrant Christian, liberal arts community with a student body of nearly 5,000 students that offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees. Located in the heart of Nashville, Lipscomb University is a Christ-centered community preparing learners for purposeful lives through rigorous academics and transformative experiences. The institution also includes Lipscomb Academy, a PreK2-12th grade college preparatory school of nearly 1,300 students. For more information, visit www.lipscomb.edu.
