By Alexander Luzula/Staff Writer
FIU has appointed Elizabeth M. Bejar as its next Provost, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, after serving in the role as an interim for nearly a year. Bejar marks a historic appointment, cementing her position as the first Hispanic woman to serve as Provost.
Bejar’s appointment was confirmed in a university-wide email sent out by President Jessell earlier this morning, which congratulated her on her new appointment.
“Dr. Bejar’s understanding of the dynamics of higher education administration alongside her ability to meet opportunities and challenges with confidence, integrity, and responsibility, are unparalleled,” said Jessell in the email.
Bejar has been a member of the FIU community since 2003, becoming Vice Provost for Academic Planning and Accountability in 2009, Vice President of Academic Affairs in 2014, and Senior VIce President for Student and Academic Affairs in 2018. Additionally, Bejar is also an FIU alumna, having received her master’s degree in International and Intercultural Development Education from FIU.
During her time as Interim Provost, Bejar reorganized the Office of Engagement into the Center for Community Impact and Public Purpose, and appointed two new deans: Juan Cendan of the Wertheim College of Medicine and William Hardin of the College of Business. She is also currently searching for a permanent dean for the library and the Green School of International and Public Affairs.
PantherNOW reached out to FIU Media Relations and the Provost’s Office for comment but they were unavailable at the time of publication.
“We are innovators in a time of success,” said Jessell in his statement. “As a community focused on solving some of the greatest challenges of our time, we are dedicated to our vision and to keep achieving excellence in everything we do.”
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