Timothy Downs named academic affairs VP at Niagara University
Niagara University
March 14, 2011
Niagara University is pleased to announce that Timothy M. Downs, Ph.D. has been appointed vice president of academic affairs at the university following a nationwide search. Dr. Downs possesses over 25 years of experience in higher education and currently serves as the dean of the College of Humanities, Education and Social Sciences at Gannon University, a Catholic university located in Erie, Pa. He will assume his new position at Niagara on June 13, 2011.
The appointment of Dr. Downs as vice president of academic affairs will allow Bonnie Rose, Ph.D. to commit her full-time efforts to the position of executive vice president at Niagara. Dr. Rose has been serving in both capacities since 2004.
“Bringing on someone with the wide range of expertise that Tim possesses, especially in Catholic higher education, is a significant achievement for Niagara University,” said the Rev. Joseph L. Levesque, C.M., president of Niagara University. “Moreover, Tim’s hiring marks the completion of our senior leadership team; that, coupled with the forthcoming conclusion of our capital campaign, make it clear that this is a very exciting time for Niagara University.”
As vice president for academic affairs, Dr. Downs will serve as Niagara’s chief academic officer, striving to advance the university to new levels of academic excellence, expand the diversity and scope of its programs and student populations, and increase its national and international profile. Dr. Downs will work with Niagara’s president and senior leadership team to foster an outstanding educational experience that integrates liberal arts and professional studies in distinctive ways that advance the university’s Catholic and Vincentian mission.
