Mark Mossman has been leading Academic Affairs for WIU as interim provost since Fall 2023. During that time, Mossman, along with other leaders in Academic Affairs, initiated and began implementing an academic rebuild that places emphasis on academic program excellence, interdisciplinary collaboration and alignment with industry needs, state priorities and student interests.
Mossman will begin his role as Provost effective immediately.
“Dr. Mossman demonstrates deep commitment to WIU by ensuring the institution’s long-term sustainability while simultaneously building a strong, innovative foundation for the future,” said WIU President Kristi Mindrup. “His leadership, vision and collaborations with faculty and University leaders are positioning WIU as an ‘Opportunity University,’ with an emphasis on excellent academic programs and initiatives that align with Western’s mission and the needs of the region.”
“I am honored to serve as Provost at WIU,” said Mossman. “Western Illinois University is a special place where our academic programs are highly valued and accessible to students. I believe in our mission, and I look forward to continuing Western’s tradition of academic excellence.”
In addition to University roles, Mossman is a member of the Quad Cities Manufacturing Institute Board of Directors, a partnership among three schools—University of Illinois, Iowa State University and Western Illinois University. Under Mossman’s leadership, WIU has also established a partnership on the Quad Cities campus with the Moline School District.
“One of the things that makes WIU’s future bright is the increased significance of our external entities. WIU is impacting lives throughout the state with our partnership agreements; the reach of WIU is incredible,” said Mossman. “From engaging in efforts to address grocery deserts throughout Illinois to teaching dual enrollment courses in the classroom environment, I have been able to see firsthand the importance of WIU and our programs to our region and our state.”
Mossman’s vision for academic affairs includes centering strategic planning around Western’s recognition as an “Opportunity University” by the Carnegie Classification of Higher Education.
“Western is the leading public university in the state of Illinois in providing access to education and turning that access into social mobility and future earnings of our graduates,” said Mossman. “WIU graduates are prepared for success because of the positive impact of our incredible faculty.”
Mossman previously served as associate provost for Undergraduate and Graduate Studies and department chair of English, and he has been a member of the WIU faculty since 2001. He holds a Ph.D. in English Literature from Saint Louis University.
To learn more about WIU ranking as an opportunity university, visit carnegieclassifications.acenet.edu/saec/.
***Courtesy of Zachary Messersmith, Western Illinois University***
