Valparaiso University has named Eric W. Johnson ’87, Ph.D., as the next provost and executive vice president for academic affairs. Johnson has served in the position in an interim capacity since February 2021.
Johnson will play an integral role in the University’s leadership team in establishing Valpo’s goals and aspirations in the form of a new strategic plan. He will ensure a robust and compelling academic program by continuing to create, analyze and support multiple delivery modalities that address the needs of various student populations, specific program goals and market demand.
“Eric Johnson has faithfully served Valparaiso University for more than two decades and is well equipped to help guide Valpo’s future,” said José D. Padilla, J.D., University president. “I look forward to working closely with Eric as we build on the University’s foundation, rooted in the Lutheran tradition of scholarship, freedom and faith, and propel it forward to an exciting new chapter in its history.”
In his role, Johnson will be responsible for leadership and oversight of the University’s academic programs as well as student life, campus ministries and international programs.
“The mission and values of Valparaiso University resonate with my personal priorities, and I believe that this position at this time is how I should continue my vocational journey,” Johnson said. “As provost, I will continue to build on the foundation laid by students, alumni, faculty and administrators to ensure Valpo is an institution grounded in the Lutheran tradition that prepares students for lives of leadership and service.”
Johnson served as dean of Valpo’s nationally ranked College of Engineering from 2013 until January 2021 and as a faculty member since 1997. In addition, Johnson was the director of the University’s study abroad center in Reutlingen, Germany, for three years, chair of the electrical and computer engineering department for four years and project director for the University’s online graduate expansion initiative.
Johnson earned his bachelor’s in electrical engineering from Valpo. He holds a master’s and doctorate in computer science and engineering from the University of Notre Dame.
