A Guide to the Office of the Provost
The Provost is the University’s chief academic officer, charged with ensuring the excellence of academic programs and faculty.
With the support of several Vice Provosts, the Provost directs the development and implementation of the University’s academic plans and policies, and builds strong administrative support for academic activities.
As leader of the academic enterprise, the Provost:
- Governs policies and processes for academic appointments and oversees academic personnel. The Provost decides, with the support of the Tenure Review Advisory Committee, who should be recommended to the President and Trustees for tenure.
- Works in partnership with senior leadership to develop the University’s annual budget and long-term financial plans.
- Oversees resources for educational advances and cross-disciplinary collaboration, helping faculty push the boundaries of knowledge, scholarship, and pedagogy.
- Stewards the Faculty Diversity Initiative, Columbia’s $185 million commitment to build a more diverse and inclusive faculty through targeted recruitment, grants, and other efforts.
- Oversees a range of units that support the academic life of the University, including the Libraries, the Center for Teaching and Learning, Columbia University Press, and University Seminars.
- Leads the administration of numerous programs to support faculty professional development as well as work/life needs, and guides the allocation of important resources for faculty, including housing.
- Is the senior administrator for the Trustees Academic Affairs Committee.
- Serves as the University's chief affirmative action officer.