The University of Alabama’s Office for Academic Affairs announced a series of leadership transitions and new appointments that will further advance UA’s academic mission and enhance support for faculty and students.
Dr. Lesley Reid has been named senior associate provost for academic and administrative affairs, transitioning from her role as associate provost for faculty affairs, a position she has held since 2021. In this expanded capacity, Reid will continue to oversee critical institutional functions, including the Faculty Handbook and compliance-related responsibilities, in addition to taking on new responsibilities in academic space management, academic program review, and other core areas of academic administration. This strategic realignment will allow for clearer distinctions between faculty development initiatives and policy oversight, ensuring focused leadership in both domains.
Succeeding Reid as associate provost for faculty affairs is Dr. David Deutsch, current chair of the department of English. A dedicated educator and administrator, Deutsch brings over a decade of leadership experience to this role, including seven years at the helm of the English department, where he previously served as director of undergraduate studies before becoming chair. In his new position, he will guide faculty development efforts and oversee key faculty administrative processes, including sabbaticals, promotion and tenure review cycles, and faculty grievances.
In an additional leadership expansion, Dr. Tiffany A. Sippial, dean of the Honors College, will take on a dual appointment as associate provost for undergraduate education, while continuing her deanship. Mirroring Dr. Susan Carvalho’s role in graduate education, Dr. Sippial will oversee the undergraduate council, manage academic misconduct and undergraduate grievances, and lead the implementation of the new general education core, working closely with Drs. Chapman Greer and Erik Peterson. Her proven track record in innovative undergraduate education and strategic initiatives makes her exceptionally well-suited to steer this important work.
These leadership appointments mark an important step in advancing the University’s strategic priorities in academic excellence, faculty support and student success. As the Office for Academic Affairs continues to evolve to meet the needs of a growing and dynamic campus, Reid, Deutsch, and Sippial will play key roles in shaping the academic direction of the institution. Their combined expertise and commitment to the University’s mission will help foster innovation, accountability, and opportunity across all levels of the academic enterprise.