Purcell to serve as Assistant Provost for Undergraduate Excellence and Student Success
Kenny Purcell headshot taken by USI Photography and Multimedia
Dr. Kenny Purcell has been named Assistant Provost for Undergraduate Excellence and Student Success at the University of Southern Indiana, effective Saturday, August 1. He will report to Dr. Shelly Blunt, Provost.
In this role, Purcell will assist the Provost in implementing institution-wide initiatives that advance undergraduate learning, student retention, timely degree completion and an engaging student experience. His responsibilities will include partnering with the academic colleges to advance student success initiative and provide oversight to the Honors Program, Themed Learning Communities, Disability Resources, University Division and undergraduate research initiatives.
“Kenny's leadership, dedication to students and commitment to academic excellence make him an outstanding choice for this role,” says Blunt. “I am excited to see the positive impact he will have on student success at USI.”
Purcell currently serves as Director of University Core Curriculum at USI. He also chairs the First-Year Experience Field Trip Planning Committee and the TEDxUSI Committee.
Purcell joined the University 17 years ago as an Assistant Professor of Physics and has risen through the faculty ranks to become Professor of Physics.
A materials scientist by training, in recent years, Purcell’s research has focused on higher education policy, particularly on reaching adult learners and communicating the value of a robust core curriculum to the public.
Throughout his career at USI, he has served in numerous leadership roles, including Chair of Faculty Senate. He also has contributed to a variety of University committees, including the Strategic Plan Coordinating Committee, the Pott College Outreach and Retention Committee and the Solarpalooza Steering Committee.
Purcell earned a bachelor's degree in mathematics and physics from Western Kentucky University and master's and doctorate degrees in physics from Florida State University.