Delta State University’s new Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Charles McAdams, is ready to get everyone on the same sheet of music.
The former music professor and Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Northwest Missouri State University is adrenalized to be at Delta State, a position he officially began this week.
“It’s been great so far — everyone is so nice and welcoming,” said McAdams. “The people are very gracious here and I knew that would be the case based on the proud traditions at Delta State.”
McAdams previously served as dean at NMSU since 2004 and chair of the Department of Music at the University of Central Missouri. He also held leadership roles at various professional organizations, including vice president of the Missouri Association of Departments and Schools of Music, 2002-2004; vice president of the College-University Division of the Missouri Music Educators Association, 1998-2000; and state chair for the Missouri Chapter of the Society for Music Teacher Education.
Beyond music, McAdams said he understands the significance of the Provost position and the accountability he will hold with his new title.
“The Provost position is a critical academic office and a great responsibility,” he said. “In essence, academics are the central focus of the university and I take that very seriously. I recognize and respect the important role faculty and staff play in providing education for the students.
“Delta State has such fine traditions and I look forward to working with the people here to help bring the university to the next level of academic excellence.”
President William N. LaForge is also thrilled to be working alongside a new administrator with an extensive education background.
“Dr. McAdams will bring to Delta State a wealth of experience in higher education, a strong commitment to academics and our faculty, and a vision of excellence that will fit perfectly with this university’s mission for the next several years,” said LaForge in a previous article.
While McAdams is not originally from Mississippi, he said it would be an easy transition because his childhood was spent in Tennessee. His mother is a native of the state, growing up in Water Valley and Drew.
“The location was a big draw in coming here since I’m from the South. I think I’ll be very comfortable because in many ways Delta State is very similar to the previous two universities I worked at — small regional public campuses.”
He and his wife Carol also look forward to exploring the area and getting involved with the community. Carol is semi-retired and has a strong passion for quilting. Along with music, McAdams enjoys traveling and photography.
Above all else, McAdams said striving for academic excellence would take a team effort — commitment from faculty, staff, administration and students.
“We will look at the things needed to improve Delta State and what it will take to bring more students here. We hold a serious responsibly to create an environment where the students feel supported and encouraged to learn.”
