Office of the Provost

A message from Provost Lancaster

Welcome to the 2026-2027 academic year at Central Michigan University!

The Office of the Provost is proud to support CMU's vibrant academic community across more than 200 programs within our seven colleges. Whether you are beginning your journey as an undergraduate student, advancing your expertise through graduate study, or continuing your work as a faculty or staff member, you are part of a community dedicated to learning, discovery, and growth. Our programs provide opportunities to expand knowledge, develop valuable skills, and prepare for meaningful careers, engaged citizenship, and lifelong success.

In today’s rapidly changing world, shaped by technological innovation, global relations, environmental challenges, public health needs, and questions of social equity, the ability to learn, adapt, and work across differences has never been more important. At CMU, students are challenged to think critically, explore new ideas, and engage with complex issues from a variety of perspectives. We are committed to fostering a welcoming and engaging environment where all members of our community can learn, contribute, and thrive.

The Office of the Provost upholds CMU’s core values of integrity, respect, compassion, inclusiveness, social responsibility, excellence, and innovation. These values guide our work and shape the academic experiences we create for students. They inspire us to support student achievement, encourage discovery and creativity, and help every learner reach their fullest potential.

As we begin this new academic year, I am excited by the opportunities ahead for our students and the contributions they will make both on campus and beyond. Whether you are joining CMU for the first time or continuing your educational journey, I encourage you to take advantage of the many opportunities to learn, connect, lead, and grow. Together, we will continue to build a community where academic excellence and student success remain at the center of all we do.

I look forward to a year filled with learning, discovery, and achievement.

Best,
Paula Lancaster
Provost and Executive Vice President