The Office of Academic Affairs provides leadership for continuous improvement in academic programs, faculty development, support facilities and services, and, ultimately, student success. The faculty and staff of IU East uphold the highest standards of excellence in education, many with national and international reputations for their teaching, scholarship, and service, and significant stature in their disciplines and professions.

Welcome to IU East!

I was pleased to join the academic community of IU East as the new Executive Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs in January of 2025.  I joined IU East from Saginaw Valley State University, where I spent nearly 20 years serving in various leadership roles, from department chair to associate provost.  I've had the opportunity to collaborate with faculty and staff on various activities, including student success initiatives, domestic and international transfer pathways, assessment and accreditation, shared governance, and academic program development. I have provided direct oversight of units, including the Registrar's Office, Career Services, Student Success Center, Sponsored Programs, Writing Center, Math and Physics Resource Center, Academic Advisement Center, International Programs, Study Abroad, and Community Engagement. I am passionate about the role of regional public universities in creating pathways to student success that advance careers, provide holistic student development, and benefit the community.

IU East is a special place with a unique combination of face-to-face and online academic programs that provide highly accessible opportunities for students to complete their degrees. Our high-achieving faculty provide a welcoming and inclusive environment both inside and outside the classroom. With experiential learning opportunities that range from study abroad to exotic locations to internships with local businesses and non-profits, we provide students with durable skills such as critical thinking, logical reasoning, communication, and creativity and also real-world experience that allow them to be successful in their careers and their lives.

I'm incredibly excited to be part of the IU East community, and I'm confident that together, we can build an even brighter future for our students, faculty, and staff.

Dr. Brian Thomas
Executive Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs