Presbyterian College Appoints Dr. Erin McAdams as Provost

News Summary

Presbyterian College has announced the appointment of Dr. Erin McAdams as its new provost and vice president of academic affairs. McAdams, who previously served as interim provost since July 2024, is a distinguished academic leader known for her commitment to education and initiatives to enhance academic programs. She began her journey at Presbyterian College in 2012 as an assistant professor and has made significant contributions to faculty development and diversity initiatives. With her academic vision and collaborative approach, Dr. McAdams aims to advance the college’s mission and programs.

Presbyterian College Welcomes Dr. Erin McAdams as New Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs

Clinton, SC – Exciting changes are afoot at Presbyterian College! The college has just announced the appointment of Dr. Erin McAdams as its new provost and vice president of academic affairs. This is a big step forward for the school, and it comes after McAdams has been serving as the interim provost since July 2024.

Dr. McAdams is widely regarded as a distinguished academic leader and dedicated educator. Her experience and commitment to the academic mission of the college have made her a beloved figure among students and faculty alike. The president of Presbyterian College, Dr. Anita Gustafson, expressed great confidence in McAdams’s capabilities to lead the academic program into the future and highlighted her substantial contributions as a teacher, mentor, scholar, and colleague.

Career Journey: From Assistant Professor to Provost

Dr. McAdams began her journey at Presbyterian College back in 2012 as an assistant professor of political science. By 2023, she had rapidly climbed the academic ladder to become a full professor. During her impressive tenure, she also served a three-year term as chair of the Faculty Senate, where she played a crucial role in shaping policies and governance while working closely with the president’s cabinet.

Her contributions didn’t stop there! McAdams has participated in numerous committees, including the Provosts’ Deans’ Council, the Curriculum Committee, and the Undergraduate Programs Committee of the Board of Trustees. She’s been a champion for diversity and inclusion initiatives, showcasing her commitment to creating an equitable academic environment by serving on the Diversity and Inclusion Advisory Council and advocating for gender equity through the Women’s and Gender Studies Committee.

Pioneering New Programs and Initiatives

As interim provost, McAdams was instrumental in launching various initiatives aimed at enhancing academic programs and boosting faculty development. She successfully implemented professional development opportunities for faculty and staff and established strategic partnerships to draw in transfer students from institutions like Midlands Technical College and Tri-County Technical College.

One of her standout achievements includes the development of the “Innovative Academics” pillar of the college’s strategic plan. This new direction highlights her vision for academic excellence. Also, keep an eye out for the upcoming PC Flex program, which is set to launch in the spring of 2025, designed to offer students greater flexibility in their studies.

A Scholarly Background

Dr. McAdams is not only a leader but also a scholar. She earned her Ph.D. in political science from The Ohio State University, specializing in U.S. politics and government. Before that, she completed her B.A. in political science at Allegheny College. Her research interests include political behavior, intra-party conflict, and the complex relationship between religion and politics.

Beyond academics, she advises multiple student organizations, including the Political Science Club, College Republicans, and College Democrats. She’s also the pre-law advisor and serves as the director of the Pre-law Studies Committee. Additionally, McAdams contributes to the community as a board member for the Laurens County Community Foundation.

Recognition and Future Goals

Throughout her career, McAdams has received numerous accolades, including the coveted Professor of the Year award at Presbyterian College in 2017 and the Excellence in Teaching Award from South Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities. With her new role as provost, she will now oversee academic programs, faculty, and strategic initiatives to propel Presbyterian College forward.

With her collaborative approach and passion for innovation, Dr. McAdams is ready to take on this new challenge, aiming to advance the college’s mission and bolster its academic offerings.

As the community comes together to support her in this new role, there’s a sense of optimism and enthusiasm about the exciting changes that lie ahead at Presbyterian College!

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Additional Resources

• Golaurens: McAdams Named Provost
• Wikipedia: Academic Provost
• Vicksburg Post: Football Scoreboard
• Google Search: South Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities
• Floyd Mortuary: Obituary for Margaret Huff
• Google Scholar: Political Science Academic Leadership
• Tukios: Obituary Profile
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Political Science