Dear UESS division members,

It is my pleasure to announce that Grant Schoonover will serve as the interim vice provost for undergraduate education and student success as Kimberly Johnson prepares to depart at the end of the academic year.   

Grant has played an integral role advancing student success at the University of Oregon since 2008. He served as director of PathwayOregon for the last 10 years while taking on additional leadership roles, including the director of the Office of Academic Advising for Student Engagement Programs, director of the Tutoring and Academic Engagement Center, and senior director for Undergraduate Academic Success. Since 2021, he has been the assistant vice provost for academic success.  

In these roles, Grant has worked collaboratively to implement new initiatives and strategies to increase student persistence and timely graduation.  Most recently, he led UO’s 2.4M Strong Start grant aimed at supporting first-year students disproportionately impacted by the pandemic through summer bridge programming and expanded academic support.   

As I announced in February, Kimberly Johnson, who spent ten years at the University of Oregon leading student success initiatives and the UESS division, will be departing to live close to family on the East Coast. I wish Kimberly and her family all the best.   

I appreciate Kimberly’s support of Grant as they ensure a smooth transition and maintain the critical work of the division. I am grateful for the UESS leadership and staff who continue to provide excellent service and will support Grant in his role. Grant will begin his appointment on May 1.  

The university will launch a national search for a permanent vice provost after the new provost, Chris Long, arrives on campus.   Please join me in thanking Grant for taking on this important responsibility.   

Sincerely,    

Karen Ford
Interim Provost and Senior Vice President