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Alvernia names Mary Ellen Wells, JD, LLM new Provost and Chief Academic Officer

Attorney and Professor of Business most recently served as Interim Provost and Associate Provost

by Jon Fassnacht

Reading, PA (05/18/2026) — Mary Ellen Wells, JD, LLM, has been named Alvernia University's new Provost and Chief Academic Officer. Wells, who most recently served as Associate Provost, will oversee the University's academic enterprise, Career Development, educational technology, Registrar, Library and several other important administrative areas.

She replaces Leamor Kahanov, Ed.D., ATC/LAT, who will become the new president of Notre Dame de Namur University in California following a successful three-year term at Alvernia that included the creation of the Apprenticeship to Degree Program and a significant expansion of the University's fully online programs.

"We thank Dr. Kahanov for her many contributions to the University and wish her continued success," said Alvernia University President Glynis A. Fitzgerald, Ph.D. "And we are excited to welcome Dr. Wells to the role. Her experience in the Provost's Office will be invaluable to making the transition seamless."

An attorney and faculty member for more than 20 years, Wells has served the University in a variety of leadership roles, including President of the Faculty Council, Chair of the Business Department, and Interim Provost. Over the past three years, she has worked closely with the academic leadership team and broader University community in support of institutional priorities, academic operations, and strategic initiatives.

"Alvernia has been an important part of my professional and personal journey, and I am honored and grateful for the opportunity to lead Academic Affairs at Alvernia and to continue working collaboratively in support of our students, faculty, staff, and the University's mission," Wells said.

Caroline Fitzpatrick, Ph.D., will assume Wells' role as Associate Provost. With 30 years of experience in higher education at Alvernia across faculty, administrative, and leadership roles, Fitzpatrick brings a deep understanding of institutional culture, a strong commitment to shared governance, and a record of leadership in online education, open education, policy development, and research compliance.

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