Centenary University on Monday announced the appointment of Dr. Thomas Jordan as the new vice president of academic affairs, a position he assumed on Aug. 1. In his new role, Jordan will work to support Centenary’s strategic initiatives, with a focus on extending the university’s brand as a global resource for market-driven academic and workforce development programs.
Jordan will be responsible for providing oversight and leadership in several key areas, including curriculum development, faculty affairs, student retention, and student success outcomes. He brings over 25 years of experience in higher education to Centenary, having most recently served as provost and vice president of academic programs at the State University of New York (SUNY) at Delhi.
During his tenure at SUNY, Jordan was responsible for planning, developing, and maintaining academic excellence. Under his leadership, the institution restructured its academic schools, introduced new programs, and implemented a plan to improve student retention and graduation rates.
Dale Caldwell, Centenary University’s president, praised Jordan’s appointment.
“Dr. Jordan is an innovative and effective leader, with a visionary approach in creating and managing both academic and workforce development programs,” Caldwell said. “His experience is a natural fit to support my comprehensive strategic initiative to create extraordinary educational opportunities at Centenary University for traditional college students, as well as working adults and vocational students.”
Before his time at SUNY, Jordan held positions of increasing responsibility at institutions including the University of Lynchburg in Virginia and multiple City University of New York (CUNY) campuses. He holds a Ph.D. in Sociology from The Graduate Center, City University of New York, and an M.A. in Higher Education Administration from New York University.
“I am confident that my extensive experience in program development, student success, workforce development, and administrative acumen will be an asset to the University and its mission,” Jordan said. He noted that he is honored to join a dynamic and dedicated team that is advancing a plan to build on Centenary’s reputation as an educational leader for a diverse range of students.
