WVU Appoints Esteemed Scientist as Provost and Academic Affairs VP

West Virginia University (WVU) is set to welcome Beverly Wendland as its new provost and vice president for academic affairs. This announcement was made by President Michael T. Benson following an extensive nationwide search.

New Leadership at WVU

Beverly Wendland joins WVU from Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri, where she was a senior advisor after serving five years as the provost and executive vice chancellor. President Benson expressed confidence in Wendland’s diverse academic background, which includes roles as a faculty member, department chair, and dean.

Focus on Academic Excellence

Wendland is recognized nationally for her work as a cell biologist. She is expected to bring a scientific approach to her new position, complementing President Benson’s historical perspective. This combination aims to prioritize all academic disciplines, from STEM to the arts, at WVU.

• Beverly Wendland’s career includes significant leadership roles in higher education.
• She has a strong commitment to enhancing student learning and community engagement.

Key Contributions at Washington University

During her tenure at Washington University, Wendland contributed to academic excellence and research innovation. She played a crucial role in implementing a strategic plan that introduced the School of Public Health.

Earlier Career at Johns Hopkins

Before her time at Washington University, Wendland was the dean of the Krieger School of Arts and Sciences at Johns Hopkins University. She has deep roots in academic leadership, having joined Johns Hopkins in 1998 and leading its Department of Biology from 2009 to 2014.

• Wendland is a first-generation college graduate.
• She earned her bachelor’s degree in bioengineering from the University of California, San Diego.
• She obtained her Ph.D. in neurosciences from Stanford University.

Research and Community Impact

Wendland’s research focuses on the molecular mechanisms of endocytosis, which are crucial for understanding various health issues, including heart disease and cancer. Her work utilizes yeast as a model system, aiming to uncover biological principles that can influence human health.

In addition to her academic roles, Wendland has served on the Board of Directors for Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, which is affiliated with the Washington University School of Medicine.

Transition to WVU

The Provost Search Committee, co-chaired by Diana Davis and Evan Widders, collaborated with Greenwood Asher & Associates for this appointment. Wendland will also hold a faculty position in the WVU Eberly College of Arts and Sciences Department of Biology.

Wendland is scheduled to officially join WVU on July 1, 2026. She expressed eagerness to work with faculty, staff, and students to strengthen academic standards and enhance the university’s impact on West Virginia and beyond.