Provost candidate says Grand Valley formula works well

One of the candidates interviewing on campus for the position of provost said Grand Valley's formula for creating opportunities for student success is working well.

Nathan Klingbeil, dean of the College of Engineering and Computer Science at Wright State University, gave a public presentation April 17 in the Kirkhof Center. He will be available for coffee and conversation on Tuesday, April 18, from 11 a.m.-noon in the DeVos Center, Regency Room.

"I have not seen an institution more focused on student success than Grand Valley," Klingbeil said.

He was asked to create a presentation that addresses the balance of a liberal education with professional programs, and answers challenges and opportunities that could arise within the next five years.

Klingbeil said today's employers demand well-rounded graduates who have the ability to problem-solve and think critically.  "It's the work of the faculty that is redefining the relevance of a liberal education and producing what employers want: human capital," he said.

Klingbeil said he would meet future challenges by maintaining and building collaborative relationships, being transparent and open to learning, encouraging academic innovation and strengthening diversity and inclusion.

He earned a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Dayton, and a master's and doctoral degree in mechanical engineering from Carnegie Mellon University.

At Wright State, Klingbeil was named dean in 2013 and professor of mechanical and materials engineering in 2008. He has also served as associate dean for Academic Affairs from 2010-2012 and director of Student Retention and Success from 2007-2009.

Upcoming candidate presentations:

• Susanne Monahan: Wednesday, April 19, presentation from 2-3:30 p.m. in the Kirkhof Center, Grand River Room; Wednesday, April 19, coffee and conversation from 11 a.m.-noon in DeVos Center, Regency Room.

Simulcast locations: DeVos Center, room 111D; and Cook-DeVos Center for Health Sciences, room 240.

• John Omachonu: Thursday, April 20, presentation from 2-3:30 p.m. in the Kirkhof Center, Pere Marquette Room (2204); Friday, April 21 from 11 a.m.-noon in DeVos Center, Regency Room.

Simulcast locations: DeVos Center, room 111D; and Cook-DeVos Center for Health Sciences, room 140.