Southern Utah University has appointed Dr. Mary Pearson, Ph.D., as the university’s next provost and vice president for Academic Affairs

Southern Utah University (SUU) has announced the appointment of Dr. Mary Pearson as the new Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs.

 

Dr. Pearson, an innovative leader with 27 years of experience in higher education, currently serves as SUU's Vice President for Finance and Administration.

 

Her extensive background includes roles as a professor, dean, and executive administrator, positioning her as the ideal choice to lead SUU's academic mission into the future.

 

SUU President Mindy Benson highlighted the significance of this appointment, stating that the role of Provost requires a leader who can champion the academic soul of the campus while navigating the complex financial environments of higher education.

 

Dr. Pearson's deep institutional knowledge and vision for student-centered learning will ensure that SUU remains a leader in academic innovation and workforce readiness.

 

During her tenure as Dean of the Dixie L. Leavitt School of Business, Dr. Pearson oversaw a 114% increase in enrollment and a 97% career placement rate for graduates.

 

She also secured over $12.6 million in philanthropic giving and the funding necessary to construct the new Joe and Beverly Burgess Family Business Center.

 

As Provost, Dr. Pearson will oversee all academic programs, faculty development, and scholarly efforts.

 

She is tasked with maintaining the University's commitment to personalized education while expanding hands-on, career-focused experiences that prepare students for the global marketplace.

 

Expressing her enthusiasm, Dr. Pearson stated that she is deeply honored and humbled to serve as Provost at Southern Utah University.

 

She looks forward to building on the strong foundation, supporting students on their unique academic journeys, and working closely with faculty and staff to ensure SUU remains a place of opportunity and excellence for generations to come.

 

Dr. Pearson is a two-time alumna of Southern Utah University, holding both a Bachelor's and a Master's degree in Accounting from the institution before earning her Ph.D. in Business Administration with an emphasis in Advanced Accounting.

 

A Certified Public Accountant, she has also served as a visiting professor in Austria and remains active on several state and local boards, including the Governor's Utah Economic Council.

 

Dr. Pearson will replace Shauna Mendini, who has served as SUU's interim provost for nearly two years.

 

Dr. Pearson will begin her new appointment on July 1, 2026, with plans to host a series of listening sessions with faculty leadership and the broader campus community throughout the coming months.

 

Southern Utah University, located in Cedar City, remains a cornerstone of the community, contributing to its growth and development.

 

With Dr. Pearson's appointment as Provost, SUU is poised to continue its mission of providing exceptional education and fostering a vibrant academic community.