We are pleased to announce that Mark C. Morvant , PhD is currently serving as the interim dean of the College of Professional and Continuing Studies. Central Administration has recently opened the internal permanent dean search with plans to have the new dean in place by early next year. Dean Morvant is a dedicated academic leader and educator with a significant impact on student success and higher education.
Morvant is the Senior Vice Provost for Instruction and Student Success at the University of Oklahoma, a role he has held since 2022. In this capacity, he oversees critical initiatives aimed at enhancing student retention, persistence, and graduation rates. His leadership extends to supervising various academic support services, including the Academic Success Center and Undergraduate Research and Creative Activity programs. Morvant’s commitment to student success is evident in his strategic oversight and innovative approaches to academic administration.
Dean Morvant’s academic journey began with a PhD in Organic Chemistry from the University of Oklahoma in 1996, following a BS in Chemistry from Tarleton State University, where he graduated Magna Cum Laude. His career in academia spans several prestigious institutions, including Georgia Southern University and Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi, where he held various teaching and administrative positions. At the University of Oklahoma, he has served in multiple roles, such as Vice Provost for Instruction and Student Success, Associate Provost for Teaching and Technology, and Executive Director of the Center for Teaching Excellence. His extensive experience in academic leadership is complemented by his dedication to fostering a culture of innovation in teaching and learning.
Throughout his career, Morvant has been recognized for his exceptional contributions to education. He has received numerous awards, including the Regents Award for Superior Teaching and the Longmire Prize for Outstanding Teaching. His research interests are diverse, encompassing educational technology and instructional innovation. Morvant has published extensively in scientific journals and has been a keynote speaker at various national and international conferences. His work in developing open educational resources and integrating technology into the classroom has significantly impacted the educational landscape, making learning more accessible and engaging for students.
Beyond his professional achievements, Dean Morvant is deeply involved in community service and professional organizations. He has chaired numerous committees at the University of Oklahoma and has been an active member of the American Chemical Society. His leadership extends to the Residential College Society, where he has contributed to the development of residential colleges that enhance student life and learning. Morvant’s holistic approach to education, combining academic excellence with community engagement, underscores his commitment to creating a supportive and enriching environment for students and faculty alike.
