Mississippi University for Women announced two key leadership positions following recent approval by the state College Board.
Dr. E.E. “Butch” Caston, formerly the dean of the College of Education at Delta State University, will join MUW as interim provost and vice president for academic affairs effective July 1. Dr. Jennifer Miles, who currently serves as assistant professor and master”s degree program coordinator in the higher education program at the University of Arkansas, will start May 9 as MUW”s new vice president for student services.
Caston will succeed current interim Dr. Hal Jenkins, who announced his plans to retire at the end of this academic year.
“We are fortunate Dr. Caston has agreed to join our leadership team,” MUW Interim President Allegra Brigham said. “We appreciate Dr. Jenkins” dedicated service as provost for the past two years. He has been an asset to MUW.”
In commenting on Dr. Caston, Brigham said, “His 30-plus years in higher education in Mississippi will be advantageous for MUW during a period of transition. His experiences at another public university will bring new perspectives to our campus. In addition, his spirit of cooperation and collaboration will be assets as he works with faculty in our ongoing pursuit of academic excellence and innovation at this important juncture in higher education.
“Dr. Caston is a highly respected educator and has demonstrated the kind of energetic leadership that will support MUW”s mission and help our university continue to progress. He and his wife, Marlene, will be welcomed additions to our campus and to Columbus,” added Brigham.
In addition to DSU, Dr. Caston has worked at William Carey and the University of Southern Mississippi. Since retiring from DSU in 2004, he has been engaged in consulting work as well as serving as adjunct faculty. He will begin working with MUW prior to July 1.
He said, “I look forward to the experiences and new associations at MUW beginning this summer. It is an honor to follow Dr. Hal Jenkins, a long-time colleague and friend, and I pledge my total support and commitment to the students, employees and supporters of this great university.”
From 1989 to 2004, he served as dean of the College of Education at DSU. Prior to that, he was director of field experiences and coordinator of teacher education for more than five years.
He also has worked with the Hattiesburg Municipal Separate School District as assistant superintendent as well as Thames Junior High School and Cleveland High School. While at the Hattiesburg Separate School District, he successfully implemented a court ordered desegregation plan.
Caston earned his doctor of education in guidance and counseling interdisciplinary, administration from the University of Southern Mississippi and both his master”s of education and bachelor”s from Delta State College.
Dr. Sue Jolly-Smith, MUW interim dean of the College of Education and Human Sciences, said she was pleased that Dr. Caston accepted the appointment. She worked with him at DSU while he was the director of field experiences and she was an instructor. Shortly thereafter he became dean.
“I have had the privilege of working under his leadership and guidance and consider him a mentor. Dr. Caston is strong, effective and caring. I found him to be supportive whenever I brought new or creative ideas to him. He is a true visionary, and we are indeed fortunate to have his leadership along with that time of transition for MUW. What a privilege to have the opportunity to serve under his leadership again.”
Miles” professional background includes extensive experience as a
practitioner and faculty member.
We are excited Dr. Miles accepted this key position at MUW,” Brigham said. “She knows Student Services inside-out having worked in various roles as a practitioner as well as serving as faculty and adviser to master”s and doctoral students in student affairs programs. She is a great match with our current Student Services staff. “Dr. Miles comes to our campus knowing the challenges facing MUW, all Mississippi universities and higher education in general. She is eager to serve on a team that is clearly focused on moving our university to the next level in all areas. We feel fortunate to have attracted Dr. Miles to our campus and know she will bring great energy and passion to her leadership role at MUW.”
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