WFU announces new appointments in the Provost’s office

Wake Forest University is delighted to announce Mary Muchane’s appointment as the inaugural Assistant Provost for Faculty Development, effective September 1. Muchane joins Wake Forest from Davidson College, where she served as the assistant dean for research development and director of sponsored programs.

As the assistant provost for faculty development, Muchane will work closely with Associate Provost for Faculty Affairs Stacie Petter to enhance faculty development initiatives, promote research excellence, and foster an environment where faculty can thrive academically and professionally at all career stages.

Muchane brings a wealth of experience and a strong background in research development and faculty support. With a Ph.D. in geological sciences from Duke University and a postdoctoral fellowship from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, she has a robust academic and professional portfolio. At Davidson College, Muchane was instrumental in fostering collaborations across academic disciplines and institutions, supporting faculty in securing significant grants and enhancing the institution’s research infrastructure.

“Mary’s dedication to walking alongside faculty at all career stages and her success at assisting them in reaching their research, scholarly and creative goals will be a tremendous asset to Wake Forest,” said Provost Michele Gillespie. “She will be a critical leader in helping us strengthen the research arm of our impressive teacher-scholar model as outlined in our Strategic Framework.”

In addition to welcoming Muchane, the Office of the Provost also announced that Betsy Barre, executive director of the Center for the Advancement of Teaching (CAT), has been given the additional title of Assistant Provost.

“Betsy has demonstrated exceptional leadership within the CAT, providing invaluable guidance to faculty on emerging topics such as generative AI and innovative teaching methodologies,” said Gillespie. “This new title reflects her significant contributions and expanded responsibilities in faculty development and support.”

As assistant provost, Barre will engage more deeply in developing and implementing the University’s strategic initiatives. This role will provide her with a stronger connection to the Provost’s office, allowing her to inform the development of University policies and enhance her visibility within both the internal Wake Forest community and the external academic community.  Barre will play a crucial role in fostering an environment that promotes academic excellence, innovative teaching and collaborative research.

These new appointments further underscore Wake Forest’s deep commitment to its core ideals of supporting excellence in teaching and faculty development.