Brian R. Chapman has been named Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs at the University of North Carolina Wilmington. An experienced higher education administrator and educator, Chapman comes to UNC Wilmington from West Texas A&M University, where he has served as Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs since August 2005.

Prior to joining the administration at West Texas A&M, Chapman served for five years as dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Sam Houston State University. At both Sam Houston and West Texas A&M, he was instrumental in the development of new innovative academic programs, effective strategies for increasing student retention, and improving student learning outcomes.

"It is truly exciting to have found an administrator with Dr. Chapman's depth and breadth of experience to take over this vital position for UNCW," said Chancellor Rosemary DePaolo. "It is clear that he shares a student-centered philosophy of higher education that fits well with our seven strategic goals, including the importance of the undergraduate learning experience, regional outreach and service learning, study abroad and global opportunities, and diversity. He is also highly supportive of faculty and understands the need to recruit, retain and develop outstanding teachers, scholars and researchers."

Chapman said that, while he was satisfied with all aspects of his position at West Texas A&M and was not looking to leave, he had been interested in UNC Wilmington for many years, since visiting to present two research papers at a conference, and decided to apply when he saw an opening for the provost position.

"Through the years, I have watched UNC Wilmington grow and develop as a first-class institution," he said. "I am delighted to have the opportunity to become a part of an outstanding university that places such great value on teaching excellence and the development of innovative ways to encourage learning."

Chapman said he and his wife, Sandy, are looking forward to relocating to Wilmington. His two daughters, their husbands and his four grandchildren are excited about the opportunities to explore a new area.

Chapman's academic background is in zoology. Prior to becoming a university administrator, he served as a professor of zoology and graduate coordinator in the School of Forest Resources at the University of Georgia, and also served in faculty positions at the University of Oklahoma and Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi. He has published numerous academic papers and conference presentations related to his research on various species of birds.

He received his master's and doctoral degrees in zoology from Texas Tech University and his bachelor's degree in biology from Texas A&M University-Kingsville.

The provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs reports directly to the chancellor, oversees all academic units of the university and serves as chief operating officer for UNC Wilmington.

Media contact:
Dana Fischetti, manager of news and media relations, 910.962.7259 or fischettid@uncw.edu.