Jennifer O’Brien-Knotts to serve as vice provost for academic systems and services and Terry-Ann Jones as deputy provost for undergraduate education
In fall 2022, the Provost’s Office sought to restructure the position of deputy provost for academic affairs. As a result, two new roles have been created, with the responsibilities of the former deputy provost of academic affairs divided among them. These new positions will aid the Provost’s Office in ensuring rich and diverse academic programming while advancing Lehigh’s mission.
Jennifer O’Brien-Knotts to lead academic processes and systems
Jennifer O’Brien-Knotts, Ph.D. has been appointed vice provost for academic systems and services. In this role, she will work with the provost, the deputy provost for undergraduate education, the deputy provost for graduate education, and the deputy provost for faculty affairs on all aspects of academic processes and systems, including those related to registration and academic services, enrollment data, faculty data, student transfers, and student outcomes.
O’Brien-Knotts will provide counsel to the provost on matters related to the systems that support data-informed decisions regarding academic matters. She also will provide advice to the provost and the deans on matters of academic planning and use of classroom infrastructure, and will support efforts to recruit and retain undergraduate and graduate students.
“I’m excited for the opportunity to lead a team that will create a great experience for Lehigh students, faculty, and staff,” O’Brien-Knotts said.
O’Brien-Knotts has been a dedicated and innovative member of the community for more than 11 years. For eight years, she served as the director of enrollment management services before she was promoted to the assistant vice provost for enrollment management in 2020.
Terry-Ann Jones will play a critical role in undergraduate programs
Terry-Ann Jones, professor of political science and director of the Africana Studies Program, has been appointed the deputy provost for undergraduate education. In this capacity, she will hold an integral role in all aspects of undergraduate programs, with special focus on educational policies and programs that span across Lehigh’s colleges. Jones will also lead university-wide efforts to enhance undergraduate student retention and academic advising while working closely with associate deans and department chairs to enhance Lehigh’s academic program offerings, improve outcomes and support diversity, inclusion and equity in our educational programs.
“I’m honored to be assuming the role of deputy provost for undergraduate education,” Jones said. “I look forward to working with my colleagues to create an exceptional experience for all Lehigh students. Lehigh has a wealth of opportunities available to students, and I am eager to reduce or perhaps even remove the barriers that some students face in pursuing these opportunities.”
Jones is an accomplished educator and researcher. She was on the faculty at Fairfield University for fifteen years before joining Lehigh in 2020. A Fulbright Scholar, her work has focused on questions related to migration and immigration in the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, Brazil, and most recently, South Africa.
