Ashland University announced Eun-Woo Chang as the new provost on Jan. 15 after a long search process conducted by the provost search committee.

From the 40-60 candidates, Chang was among the top three.

“Dr. Chang rose to the top for many reasons,” said Ashland University president Carlos Campo. “One was [that] he had a lot of experience working with undergrad education, a really strong background in the grant making [process] and a hard scientist.”

Chang’s background in higher education ranges from director for the Division of Undergraduate Education in Arlington, VA., to interim dean of mathematics and sciences in Las Vegas, NV.

“We really wanted someone who had a sense of whole person education which is so important to Ashland,” said Campo. “Someone who would fit into this community and someone who knew what we were about.

In preparation for the search, Campo reached out to about 25 people throughout the process to consider applying, one of which being Chang. Campo and Chang worked together in Nevada where Chang was the dean of mathematics and science, while Campo was the dean of the arts. Campo mentioned he had always hoped they would end up working together again.

“It was a different relationship and a different institution but I think we’ll work together well,” said Campo. “The main thing is that it’s not about me, it’s not about him, it’s about Ashland. And because I know he believes in the mission of the school. I know we’ll work together well.”

During a phone interview with Chang, he mentioned that during his time as provost he wants to put an emphasis on all AU students, especially the international population.

Campo believes this will assist the university’s success in bringing in more students from around the world.

“We have intentions to grow our international population,” said Campo. “He brings a whole different perspective and an important piece [of that] to Ashland.

When Chang arrives in April, he will have the opportunity to meet the current students and get to know more about AU.

During a phone interview with Chang, he wanted to let the AU community know that he is “excited to join us in April.”

Chang’s first job will be working on an academic affairs unit plan and trying to make it fit into the overall strategic plan. He will continue working through the summer to get the ground running in academic affairs.

“He’s a very innovative guy and I think he’ll get the ground running,” said Campo. “He really tries to think outside of the framework of higher education.”