CLEVELAND, Miss.—Delta State University is pleased to announce the appointments of two new vice presidents to the University’s administration.
Following two national searches, Dr. Andy Novobilski has been named Delta State’s next provost and vice president for academic affairs, and Dr. Edward (Eddie) Lovin has been named the vice president for student affairs.
They will officially begin in their new appointments on July 1, pending approval by the Board of Trustees for the Mississippi Institution of Higher Learning next month.
“I extend my sincerest appreciation to both search committees that worked so hard to bring us top-notch candidates,” said Delta State President William N. LaForge. “I look forward to welcoming our two new vice presidents to the Delta State family. I know they will each serve with distinction.”
Dr. Andy Novobilski
Dr. Andy Novobilski comes to Delta State from the University of North Georgia, where he served as associate provost for Research and Engagement, dean of Graduate Studies and as chief research officer during the last six years.
His extensive academic career includes appointments as chair, dean, associate provost and provost in both public and private institutions. He has also served as a Fulbright specialist and as a member of the higher education assessment team for Belize Ministry of Education.
“The Delta is a special place filled with good people, great hospitality and outstanding opportunity for growth. To join Delta State as provost is to join a tradition of service through academic programs that provide access to new ideas to learners of all ages,” said Novobilski.
“Good folks, the blues, aviation, and a Fighting Okra. Who wouldn’t want to be part of a community like Delta State?” he added.
Novobilski received his Doctor of Philosophy degree from the University of Texas at Arlington (College of Engineering), Master of Science in Computer Science and Engineering from the University of Texas at Arlington and his Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from Drexel University.
Dr. Eddie Lovin
Dr. Eddie Lovin joins Delta State from Cumberland University, where he has mostly recently served as the executive director of Enrollment Services for the last six years.
With two decades of experience in higher education, Lovin has held positions as the director of Residence Life, Greek Affairs and Orientation at Cumberland University; coordinator of Residence Life at Maryville College; and senior academic counselor for Athletics at the University of Mississippi.
“I want to thank President LaForge, Athletic Director Mike Kinnison and the search committee for entrusting me to lead the Division of Student Affairs. Being named the Vice President for Student Affairs at Delta State University is very humbling, and an honor I do not take lightly,” said Lovin.
Lovin said his early goals will include learning from everyone in the community on how his experiences can elevate current programs, foster new opportunities for growth and capitalize on student-focused ideas to enhance the DSU student experience.
“My wife, Brandi, and I look forward to returning to Mississippi, getting involved in the greater Cleveland community and doning some green for DSU. I am excited to join in and help our students stand out on campus, in the Delta, and around the world!” he added.
Lovin received his Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership from Tennessee State University, Master of Business Administration from Cumberland University, Master of Arts in Higher Education and Student Personnel at the University of Mississippi and a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice Administration from the University of Mississippi.
A selection committee was formed in order to guide the national search for the positions. Finalists recently visited the Delta State campus and spent time meeting with various constituent groups. They also made presentations during open forums attended by faculty, staff and students.
Chaired by Dean of DSU’s College of Education and Human Sciences Dr. Leslie Griffin, VPAA/Provost Search Committee members included: Dr. Chris Jurgenson, College of Arts and Sciences representative; Dr. Donna Ossorio, College of Arts and Sciences representative; Richard Tremmel, College of Arts and Sciences representative; April Mondy, College of Business and Aviation representative; Dr. Zinaida Taran, College of Business and Aviation representative; Dr. John Alverez, College of Education and Human Sciences representative; Dr. Natasha Barnes, College of Education and Human Sciences representative; Dr. Vicki Bingham, School of Nursing representative; Dr. Beverly Moon, Graduate and Continuing Studies representative; Emily Dabney, Academic Affairs staff representative; Dr. Christy Riddle, Academic Affairs staff representative; James Forte, Diversity representative; Dr. Andrew Wegmann, Faculty Senate representative; Dr. Edwin Craft, Staff Council representative; Isabella Escobedo, Student Government Association (SGA) representative; and ex-officio member Lisa Giger, director of Human Resources.
Chaired by DSU’s Athletic Director Mike Kinnison, VPSA Search Committee members included: Dr. Jon Westfall, Faculty Senate representative; Chief Jeff Johns, Staff Council representative; Richard Word, SGA president; Hannah Malatesta, student representative; Haitham Touma, student representative; Rochelle Owsley, Student Affairs representative; Merritt Dain, Student Affairs representative; Dr. Ellen Green, faculty representative; Dana George, Athletics representative; Patrick Davis, Alumni representative; Michelle Johansen, Diversity representative; and ex-officio member Lisa Giger, director of Human Resources.
