University of Rochester
Advocacy and support for the University’s academic enterprise and the intellectual life of its community define the mission of the Office of the Provost. The Provost provides leadership for academic programs, research, and initiatives involving faculty and students, and works with the entire campus community to ensure that faculty and student needs are met and the University’s mission fulfilled.
The goals of the Provost’s Office at the University of Rochester reflect its motto —Meliora— the Latin exhortation to become ever better. We encourage you to learn more about the office, who we are, and what we do by exploring these pages.
What is a Provost?
If you don’t know, you’re not alone. The term "provost" originated in the Middle Ages, derived from the Latin word "praepositus" (meaning “a person placed over”) and was used as the proper title of both ecclesiastical and secular officers. From Medieval times to the 19th century, "provost" referred to the wardens of the forerunners of today’s prisons and hospitals.
In contemporary American higher education the word "provost" denotes a high-level administrator – usually the chief academic officer – of an institution. The provost is typically second in rank to the president among senior administrators, responsible for guiding development and implementation of the academic agenda, including allocation of resources, and for championing the academic enterprise on campus and in the surrounding community.
Ralph W. Kuncl
Provost
Executive Vice President
-CV (Executive Summary)
-CV (Administrative Accomplishments)
-CV (Faculty Academic Credentials/Bibliography)
Contact Information
Office of the Provost
200 Wallis Hall
University of Rochester
Rochester, NY 14627
Phone: (585) 275-5931
Fax: (585) 276-2500
ralph.kuncl@rochester.edu