ULV Welcomes Dr. Laura Hartley as Interim Provost

The University of La Verne welcomes Dr. Laura Hartley as Interim Provost.

Dr. Hartley is an accomplished individual who brings a wealth of knowledge from over 25 years spent working in higher education. She graduated from Wheaton College (IL) with a BA in Interdisciplinary Studies (Mathematics Communication, and World Languages). Dr. Hartley then earned an MA and PhD in Linguistics with an emphasis in Sociolinguistics from Michigan State University.

Dr. Hartley has worked at private universities (all members of the Council of Independent Colleges) in four states. Most recently, she served as Provost/Chief Academic Officer at Seattle Pacific University (SPU) from 2020-2023. In this role, she oversaw academic affairs, student affairs, university ministries, and inclusive excellence. As the second highest-ranking officer on campus, she managed a budget of $46 million with over 300 full-time employees and staff. Her impressive work led her to serve as Executive-In-Charge of SPU after the unexpected departure of the university president.

“We are thrilled to have her join our ULV community for the next 9 months,” said Interim President Dickson. “Dr. Hartley is well positioned to carry forward the important work we’ve started to ensure that a permanent provost will be successful.”

Known for her collaborative and relational leadership style, Dr. Hartley has a proven track record of navigating complex administrative systems and fostering environments where people thrive.

Aside from her work as a university provost, Dr. Hartley served as Dean of the College of Arts & Sciences and Associate Provost for Student Academic Success at George Fox University in Oregon; Associate Professor of Language and Culture and Associate Dean of the Templeton Honors College of Eastern University in Pennsylvania; and Assistant to the President for Special Projects, Grants Officer/Staff Writer in the Office of the Provost and Development Office, and Senior Instructor/Assistant Professor in the Master’s of Intercultural Relations program at Lesley University in Massachusetts.

Over the course of her career, Dr. Hartley has made it her personal mission to create hospitable spaces where people can thrive. Her commitment to equity, inclusion, and success for students, faculty, and staff, makes her an excellent fit for the University of La Verne. The university is excited for Dr. Hartley to add her talents and expertise to their team of experienced executive leadership.