Office of the Provost
The Office of the Provost oversees and coordinates academic affairs, programs, and policies for the university. The provost, who serves as chief academic officer, and associate provosts often work closely with department chairs and faculty on curriculum development, academic leadership, and faculty and student affairs.
Dr. Samuel Hirt, Interim Provost
Dr. Samuel Hirt was appointed interim provost of Southern Virginia University in July 2025. In that capacity, he acts as the Chief Academic Officer of the university.
“Samuel Hirt cares deeply about this university—its mission, its faculty, and especially its students,” says President Bonnie H. Cordon. “Having served under two provosts during his time here, he brings hands-on experience and insight during this transition, and I am grateful for his willingness to step into this important role.”
Hirt joined the SVU faculty in 2016 as an assistant professor of biology and has served as an associate provost since 2018. In addition to his teaching and administrative duties, Hirt has played a key role in revising the university’s academic honesty and eligibility policies, coordinating the tutoring and TA programs, and expanding faculty-led travel study opportunities.
Associate Provosts and Division Chairs
Sarah Maitland
Associate Provost; Associate Professor of English; English & Writing and Communications Program Coordinator; Director of University Writing
Todd Brotherson
Interim Associate Provost; Associate Professor of Business; Business Management & Leadership Program Coordinator
Jamie Chandler
Assistant Provost; Accommodations Director
Megan Mason
Fine & Performing Arts Division Chair; Associate Professor of Music; Director of Chamber Music
Ariel Clark Silver
Humanities Division Chair; Associate Professor of English
Jared Lee
Math and Natural Sciences Division Chair; Associate Professor of Biology
Andrew Sorber
Social Sciences Division Chair; Associate Professor of Humanities and History; History Program Coordinator