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. Brent Yergensen, Provost
Dr. Brent Yergensen was appointed provost of Southern Virginia University in July 2026. In that capacity, he acts as the Chief Academic Officer of the university.
President Hale described the appointment with confidence. “Brent will be a strong partner in shaping the future of academics and faculty at the University and I look forward to his expertise and cooperation.”
Alongside his academic scholarship, Yergensen is a published poet and essayist. His work as both scholar and poet reflects a continuing interest in the intersection of ideas, culture, art, and human meaning. He has received university and professional honors including the Distinguished Service Award, Teacher of the Year, Faculty Recognition Award, and a fundraising leadership award, and has served as a reviewer and editorial board member for multiple academic journals as well as a panelist for the National Endowment for the Humanities.
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
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
Mathematics & Natural Sciences Division Chair; Professor of Biology
Andrew Sorber
Social Sciences Division Chair; Associate Professor of Humanities and History; History Program Coordinator