On August 21, Interim Provost Dr. Greg McBrayer addressed faculty from every educational college and organization at Ashland University. He started by highlighting his new role as interim provost since being appointed back in March. He mentioned the new faculty and the growth that AU has been experiencing in the past year.  

One program that has experienced growth is the Honors Program. Dr. Jeffrey Weidenhamer, director of the program, said 265 students are actively participating in the program. Dr. McBrayer announced two new appointments for the Honors Program: Diane Bonfiglio (Assistant Director) and Nick Johnson (Director of the Core Curriculum).  

Dr. McBrayer specifically emphasized the importance of recognizing the key components that make Ashland University special.  

Correctional education has witnessed over 4,000 graduates in the past few years. However, the program will focus on a lower number of states, due to the budget cuts in the university. 

“We’re refocusing from 13 to 6 states by May 2026, which include Ohio, Arizona, Louisiana, Missouri, Florida, and Georgia,” McBrayer said.  

He encouraged faculty to remain positive during this time of change and focus on things that make this university more efficient.  

“We have to work hard, we have to be creative, we have to be innovative,” said McBrayer.  

He ended by saying that it is the faculty and students who make Ashland University a great place.