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UAS Announces New Provost

July 11, 2025

After a nationwide search, UAS Chancellor Aparna Palmer has announced Dr. Scott Billingsley as the university’s next provost. 

“Because of Dr. Billingsley’s extensive background and experiences as a professor and administrator, as well as the many positive interactions that he had with UAS faculty, staff, and community members during the interview process, I believe that he will make an outstanding contribution to UAS.”

Billingsley comes to UAS from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke (UNCP), where he was Professor of History and served in a number of senior roles including the Associate Vice Chancellor for Faculty Affairs, Associate Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, and Interim Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs. He also brings his expertise in expanding online learning, designing systems to support first-year students and transfer students, and transforming academic advising for students. 

As provost, Billingsley will serve as the chief academic officer for the university and drive the academic effectiveness of the institution in collaboration with deans, directors, faculty, and staff. Ultimately, he will help ensure that students continue to receive an excellent education at UAS across all three campuses. 

"I am eager to join UAS as its next provost and become part of the Southeast �Ӱ�ԭ�� community. Having spent more than two decades at a regional university that serves an indigenous population, I am excited about the opportunity to join the UAS community in promoting student success and regional development."

Dr. Billingsley earned his Ph.D. in American History from Auburn University, an M.A. in American History from Middle Tennessee State University, and a B.A. in Social Studies Education from Lipscomb University. He specializes in modern American �Ӱ�ԭ�� and has written extensively about the role of religion in American society. His first book, It’s a New Day: Race and Gender in the Modern Charismatic Movement, chronicles the rise of women and Black evangelists in the independent charismatic movement from 1945-2000.

He will succeed interim provost Carin Silkaitis, who has served in the role during the past year. Silkaitis will return to her position as Dean of Arts and Sciences as Billingsley takes on the permanent role.

Learn more about Dr. Billingsley .

Dr. Scott Billingsley