UE Announces Provost Transition as Mary Kessler Prepares to Retire After 36 Years

Evansville, Ind. (10/20/2026) — The University of Evansville (UE) will transition its academic leadership in January as Mary Kessler moves from Acting Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs (EVPAA) and Provost to Special Assistant to the President. Dr. Andy Lampkins, dean of the UE College of Education and Health Sciences, will serve as Interim EVPAA and Provost beginning Jan. 4, 2027, while the University searches for its next permanent chief academic officer.

Kessler will continue in her current role through Jan. 4 before transitioning to Special Assistant to the President for the spring semester. She will lead several University priorities, including student retention, Harlaxton College and other special projects, through her retirement in June 2027.

UE began its search for a permanent provost with executive search firm ZRG in October. Lampkins will retain his role as dean while serving as interim provost. Dr. Bethany Huebner, department chair and associate professor of physical therapy, will serve as Interim Associate Dean of the College of Education and Health Sciences during the transition.

"Mary has given 36 years of her career to the University of Evansville, and her impact can be seen across this institution. She has helped build academic programs, supported our faculty, mentored colleagues and helped guide UE through important periods of change. I have come to rely on her experience, her judgment and her deep understanding of what makes this University special. I am grateful that she will continue to share that knowledge and leadership with us as we move forward," said UE President Christopher M. Pietruszkiewicz.

Kessler will retire after a career that has included service as a physical therapy faculty member, department chair, associate dean, dean and acting provost. She first came to the University as a physical therapy student and joined the faculty full-time in 1991.

During her tenure, Kessler contributed to the development and expansion of academic programs, including the Physician Assistant Program, Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Program, Clinical Psychology Program and Ph.D. in Health Professions Education. She also served as a team leader during the development and construction of the Stone Family Center for Health Sciences.

As acting provost, Kessler has helped guide university wide initiatives, including the 2025 reaffirmation of UE's accreditation through the Higher Learning Commission, the adoption of a new general education program, faculty recruitment and the opening of the Emily M. Young Mental Health Clinic.

"I first came to UE as a student, never imagining how much this University would come to mean to me. Over 36 years, it has been where I found my calling, built lifelong friendships and watched students grow into colleagues and leaders. So much of my life is woven into this University, and I will always be grateful for the people and experiences that have made it home," Kessler said.

Pietruszkiewicz said the University will recognize Kessler's contributions in the months leading up to her retirement. A new Provost is expected to be selected by July 2027.

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