David Patton, Ph.D., senior vice provost for academic and curricular affairs at Central Michigan University, announced on Mar. 26 that he will retire at the end of July after nearly twenty-five years with the institution.
Patton’s retirement marks the end of a long tenure during which he contributed to several university-wide initiatives and supported students, faculty, and staff across many roles. His leadership has been significant as CMU continues to offer more than 200 academic programs across seven colleges, including undergraduate, graduate, online, and study abroad options according to the official website.
Reflecting on his time at CMU, Patton said: “I am grateful to have spent the last 25 years of my career at CMU. The students, faculty and staff of CMU are wonderful people — they are hardworking, dedicated, and kind, and I am very proud to have had the opportunity to work alongside them. It has been a privilege to be part of a community so deeply committed to learning, service and supporting the success of our students.”
During his tenure at CMU—which is recognized as one of two Adobe Creative Campuses in Michigan and one of four Celonis Academic Centers of Excellence nationally according to the official website—Patton played key roles such as co-chairing both the Strategic Enrollment Management Plan and the HLC Reaffirmation steering committee for 2025-26. He also oversaw units like Academic Advising; Curriculum and Instructional Support; Honors Program; General Education; National Scholarship Program; and Study Abroad.
CMU leads in national participation for Alternative Breaks programs as per its official website. The university also focuses on delivering comprehensive education aimed at preparing students for successful careers and lifelong learning according to its official site. In addition, it ranks first in Michigan—and sixth in the Midwest—for highest earnings among females under 40 as noted by its official website.
Provost Paula Lancaster praised Patton’s contributions: “Dr. Dave Patton has been an outstanding professor, scholar, and colleague… I’m immensely grateful for his support in my transition to the role of provost and for his continued leadership.” Lancaster said she would work with Patton on a transition plan before announcing a search committee later this year.
