July 14, 2011 — Parker University has named Dr. Gery Hochanadel as provost, its first provost in its history. Hochanadel will play a vital role in the new vision of the university and will be a critical part of its leadership. Combined, he has more than 30 years of experience in managing higher educational institutions.
“This new role is imperative for the next steps we’ll be taking as a university,” said Dr. Fabrizio Mancini, president of Parker University. “Gery’s experience in education is outstanding and we’re looking forward to the impact his expertise will have on Parker.”
Hochanadel joins Parker from Keiser University, in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., where he served as the vice chancellor of academic affairs for 16 years of his more than 30 years in higher education. He operated as the chief academic officer of the university and provided leadership to the campuses in their quest to become one of the best private universities in the South.
He led the university’s reaffirmation by the Commission on Colleges in 2007 with no findings, directed and coordinated the approval of numerous degree level changes with the Commission on Colleges, developed and implemented web-based distance education, and established more than 10 allied health programs for the university.
In addition, he developed and implemented 24 associate degree programs, 12 baccalaureate degree programs, four master’s degree programs, and a doctorate of philosophy in educational leadership while at Keiser University.
“In today’s educational and healthcare landscapes, there’s a great opportunity for growth and development of ParkerUniversity,” said Honchanadel. “I’m extremely excited to be a leading force of the institution’s endeavors.”
In its new vision, Parker University will expand graduate level offerings with additional degrees in health and wellness. In addition, Parker’s vision includes serving as an expert resource for the community by providing the public the tools and information needed to be proactive about their health. The university envisions its role in the community as a source for educating and creating awareness of health and wellness. Parker also plans to offer health and wellness classes, events, and other opportunities for the community.
Hochanadel will be a key factor in leading the visions of encouraging and involving the community in taking a proactive approach with their health and will play a significant role in directing and overseeing the development and implementation of additional degrees.
“We plan to expand the scope of our mission to include allied health degrees that provide additional support to our core doctor of chiropractic program,” said Hochanadel. “We also expect to add online degree programs.”
Hochanadel received his doctorate of philosophy in adult and occupational education from Kansas State University. He also holds a master of science degree in education from Fort Hays State University and a bachelor of arts degree in political science from For tHays State University. He has been a published author in nearly 15 publications and journals.
He was appointed by the president of Commission on Colleges to the Peer Review Advisory Committee for the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges for the 2008-2010 terms. He was also appointed as a member of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Institutional Effectiveness Curriculum Committee to develop an institutional effectiveness training program for members of peer evaluation committees in 2008.
In addition, Honchanadel has been involved on numerous boards and committees for more than 30 years and has a long history of committee service to the commission.
Source: Parker University, www.parker.edu