The Provost organizational model was developed in 2021 at North Idaho College. Dr. Lloyd Duman is serving in the capacity as Interim Provost and is retiring from NIC after a life-long career at the college. In addition to the topics below, the Provost will continue the way forward in strengthening the synchronization of student services and academics with a strong understanding of both areas. In addition, the Provost serves as a confidant and sounding board to the President and ideally will have the ability to innovate while providing perspective about the college’s need for stability and pace for moving forward with positive change. The President’s Cabinet is an experienced group of leaders who collaborate well together.

North Idaho College offers a wide variety of programs, including general studies, health professions, CTE, and workforce training. The Provost will have the academic credentials and teaching experience to quickly garner respect from the faculty in all areas. The Provost will take the time to get to know faculty, understand where they have been as a college, and support them as the college adapts to the changing educational environment. Success in developing new programs, revamping existing programs, and sunsetting programs will be a project through which the Provost will lead faculty. The Provost will be an excellent communicator, with the ability to hear faculty and serve as a bridge between faculty and other college senior leaders.

Given that NIC is committed to student success as much as academic excellence, the Provost must have an equally robust understanding of and respect for student services. The student services staff are strong and passionate with a distinct focus on enrollment and retention. With this college-wide focus, NIC has enjoyed an increase in enrollment by over 1,000 students. North Idaho College’s faculty and staff are extraordinarily student centered and the next Provost must innately have that same mindset as well as a true understanding of community college student demographics and needs.

Relating to and understanding the history of NIC will be critical to the Provost forming relationships within the college and community. These relationships will be the path forward in leading innovation and positive change, while respecting the culture of the college and service area. Savvy interpersonal skills will be key to the Provost navigating the political climate, relationships with the State Board of Higher Education and accrediting bodies, as well as local leaders. While a strategic thinker will be most successful in this role, someone who also understands systems and processes is absolute. The college is making strides toward creating seamless pathways between credit and non-credit courses and programs. Some experience in moving a college forward toward this goal will be critical to the future of NIC.