UTSA Academic Affairs announces organizational and leadership updates

UTSA Provost and Executive Vice President Heather Shipley recently announced a few organizational and leadership changes within the division of Academic Affairs.

Kelly Nash has been promoted to senior associate vice provost for faculty affairs. Nash, who has overseen the Faculty Success office since fall 2023, has made great strides in implementing national best practices at UTSA regarding standards, approaches, practices and processes related to the recruitment, appointment, development and recognition of faculty. 

Katie Meersman has been promoted to chief of staff and associate vice provost for academic operations and strategic initiatives. Meersman joined the provost’s office at the beginning of 2024 as assistant vice provost after supporting the University College and several academic support divisions with their strategic planning and initiatives. In her new role, Meersman provides strategic counsel and support to Provost Shipley and plays an integral role in advancing academic initiatives.

In addition, Career-Engaged Learning and Undergraduate Studies, areas previously overseen by Shipley during her tenure as senior vice provost for Academic Affairs, have moved into division of Student Success under the leadership of Senior Vice Provost Tammy Wyatt. These areas are a natural fit for the Student Success division, as they play a critical role in advancing student achievement.

Ginnifer Cié Gee will continue to serve as associate vice provost of Career-Engaged Learning, an area that includes a cluster of interconnected offices that have taken the lead to advance UTSA’s Classroom to Career Initiative and support students’ career-readiness.

Mark Appleford will continue to serve as associate vice provost of Undergraduate Studies, an area that oversees the university’s core curriculum and focuses on improving the academic experience for undergraduate students.

See the UTSA Academic Affairs organizational chart for the latest structure.