The search for a new university provost has begun to find a replacement for Dr. Michael Bernstein, who has served as the senior vice president for academic affairs and provost since 2007.

Bernstein came to Tulane shortly after Hurricane Katrina and was cited by President Michael Fitts as “playing a major and critical role in the university’s recovery and renewal.”

Two co-chairs will lead the search: Dr. Tonette Krousel-Wood, professor of medicine and epidemiology, associate provost and senior associate dean of the School of Medicine, and Dr. Steven Sheffrin, professor of economics and director of the Murphy Institute.

Bernstein will leave Tulane after June 2016. If a replacement hasn’t been selected by that date, Dr. Nick Altiero, dean of the School of Science and Engineering, will serve as the interim provost. Altiero is a member of the Tulane administrative council and is a well-respected dean who has encouraged interdisciplinary collaboration.

The search committee consists of professors, deans and members of the Tulane board, as well as a single student member. Sarah Hostetler, the president of the Associated Student Body, will represent the student population on the search committee, however Fitts did ask students to respond to his email announcing the search with their input.  

Bernstein’s departure comes at a time of high turnover in the university administration, with multiple high-ranking officials announcing their retirement at the end of this academic year.

Long-time university registrar, Earl Retif, announced his retirement in July after 40 years at Tulane. Anne Banos, the chief of staff, announced her resignation from her alma mater after 15 years. Yvette Jones, executive vice president for university relations and development is also resigning after this academic year, having worked at Tulane for 36 years. Anthony Lorino, senior vice president for operations and chief financial officer, announced his retirement over the summer. He will be leaving after 25 years at Tulane.