On Apr. 13, 2006 President Fogel announced the new provost. John Hughes will replace John Bramely, and take the position of senior vice president at the University of Vermont. Bramely was senior vice president and provost for five years here at UVM. Hughes hails from Miami University at Ohio. There, Hughes was the Associate Provost of research and scholarship, and the Dean of the Graduate School. Hughes’ roots go right into the earth with 25 years of experience as a geology professor at Miami. Hughes and his wife are no strangers to Vermont. In an interview with South Burlington’s The View, Hughes said, “Susan and I moved from Vermont 25 years ago, and we are indeed pleased to return.” The decision to choose Hughes was a tough one. There were 68 applicants submitted from all over the country. Some of the qualities that distinguished John Hughes were his various academic achievements, and a demonstration of his dedication to the faculty and staff in Miami. “He fully subscribes to the UVM vision of inextricable linkages among learning and discovery, diversity and inclusion, service and outreach, and academic excellence,” said Fogel about the recently chosen provost. It isn’t solely Hughes’ level of commitment that got him the job. Hughes is a distinguished researcher, which is an important factor here, at the University of Vermont. Hughes was able to obtain grants for the National Science Foundation, Ohio Board of Regents, and several private corporations. Hughes was also able to acquire over three million dollars, which was used to engage in geological education. Hughes also has three book publications, and numerous article publications under his belt. John Hughes will have a challenging task ahead of him. The provost at most universities is responsible for governing boards, and the oversight of all educational affairs and activities. These activities include research and personnel, and the deans of schools and colleges, as well as faculty members in general, usually report to the provost. The provost is further responsible for academic support functions and interdisciplinary units too. Depending on the university it may vary what this entails, but some examples are libraries, student services, admissions, and information technology. Hughes will begin as provost on Jul. 1, 2006. However, his appointment is subject to approval by the Board of Trustees. The UVM Board of Trustees will be meeting about the provost in May.