Provost Kathleen Hagerty to Resign by Academic Year’s End
Kathleen Hagerty, the Provost of Northwestern University, will resign at the end of the academic year, as announced on Thursday. She has been a prominent figure in the university’s administration since her appointment in September 2020.
Kathleen Hagerty’s Background and Contributions
With over 40 years at Northwestern, Hagerty has served under three different university presidents. As the chief academic officer, she has led numerous initiatives to improve academic facilities and enhance educational quality.
- First woman Provost at Northwestern University.
- Former interim dean of the Kellogg School of Management.
- Chair of the Big Ten Academic Alliance.
Throughout her tenure, Hagerty played a critical role in navigating various challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic and financial constraints. She expressed her belief that it is now time to pursue her next chapter. “I have felt immense pride in the University and the people who make it so special,” she stated.
Leadership and Initiatives
As Provost, Hagerty significantly impacted Northwestern’s academic landscape. Her office oversees more than 20 units essential for advancing educational policies, academic priorities, and the annual budget.
Her tenure is marked by various accomplishments:
- Ably managed the university through the pandemic.
- Supported the establishment of numerous academic centers.
- Facilitated the renovation of key facilities.
Legacy and Future Plans
Hagerty will assist in the transition process as the university searches for her successor. President Henry Bienen praised her dedication and leadership during transformative times.
She played a vital role in hiring several deans and overseeing significant projects, including the:
- Social Sciences and Global Affairs Hub
- Litowitz Center for Enlightened Disagreement
- Giant Magellan Telescope partnership
Jennifer Lackey, director of the Northwestern Prison Education Program, commended Hagerty’s moral courage and vision, emphasizing her role in launching innovative programs.
Insights from Colleagues
Colleagues from various departments echoed similar sentiments about Hagerty’s leadership style. Dr. Eric G. Neilson highlighted her intelligence, judgment, and empathy, qualities that have earned her acclaim in the academic community.
Furthermore, Hagerty’s efforts have contributed to Northwestern’s rise in the U.S. News & World Report rankings, currently placed at No. 7. This achievement reflects the solid foundation she helped establish during her time as provost.
Her influence on faculty and students will be remembered as she transitions to a new phase in her career. “Northwestern is stronger, bolder, and more ambitious because of her leadership,” remarked Dashun Wang, a Kellogg Chair of Technology.
