Office of the Provost | Today at Elon | �þ��

�þ�� publishes 2025 Provost’s Report

Eric Townsend — Tue, 23 Jun 2026 14:33:22 +0000

The Office of the Provost has published the most recent issue of an annual online resource that highlights the �þ��, research and creative achievements of �þ��’s accomplished faculty.

With a theme of “Breaking Through the Ordinary,” the 2025 Provost’s Report emphasizes the role of innovation in �þ�� today’s students and creating learning opportunities that lead to human transformation. Elon’s nearly 500 full-time faculty members exemplify an institutional commitment to the teacher-scholar-mentor model that defines the university’s nationally acclaimed approach to higher education.

Signature features in the report include an in-depth look at the way �þ��:

Approaches the use of artificial intelligence and leads national conversations of its ethical applications
Works to establish a School of Engineering and Computing that emphasizes the skills, knowledge and global awareness students need to thrive in their careers
Serves families of children with dyslexia through a new private elementary school like those supported through philanthropy at Vanderbilt, Mercer, and Florida Southern.

The report also includes shorter profiles drawn from each of �þ��’s six schools/college that represent the innovative spirit faculty and staff bring to the community every day.

“As I reflect on these accomplishments, and on the important work that continues across the university, I am inspired by the talent, dedication, and shared purpose of �þ��’s faculty members, staff members, and students,” said Rebecca Kohn, �þ��’s provost and vice president of academic affairs. “Together, we are strengthening the academic life of the university and creating pathways that will sustain Elon’s ability to provide a valuable and transformative education for generations into the future.”

John Walz named inaugural dean of �þ��’s School of Engineering and Computing

Eric Townsend — Tue, 09 Jun 2026 13:30:14 +0000

A former president of the and longtime leader in engineering and technology education has been named the inaugural dean of �þ��’s new School of Engineering and Computing.

Dr. John Walz will join the Elon University administration on June 30, 2026, after nearly a decade helming a private university recognized for its emphasis on experiential learning, strong industry partnerships and workforce preparation.

Walz’s appointment follows a national search and comes as Elon debuts an academic division that will leverage the university’s nationally ranked approach to �þ�� þ�� and its emphasis on engaged, experiential learning in pursuit of human transformation.

“John Walz is an accomplished academic leader whose career reflects a deep commitment to student success, engaged learning, innovative program development and strong connections between higher education and industry,” Provost Rebecca Kohn said. “His experience leading engineering programs, combined with his collaborative leadership style and strategic vision, make him exceptionally well suited to guide the School of Engineering and Computing during this important moment in its history.”

John Walz is an accomplished academic leader whose career reflects a deep commitment to student success, engaged learning, innovative program development and strong connections between higher education and industry.

– Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs Rebecca Kohn

Walz will provide leadership for the School of Engineering and Computing’s academic programs, strategic planning, fundraising and external partnerships while helping advance the university’s goals for innovation, engaged learning and student success.

When the school formally opens for the 2026 Fall Semester, anchoring the university’s Innovation Quad in the heart of campus, it will include 20 full-time faculty and three full-time staff positions with more than 300 �þ�� students.

Engineering is among the university’s most rapidly expanding academic areas, reflecting both national demand and student interest. Elon’s existing ABET-accredited engineering program offers programs in biomedical, computer, mechanical, and environmental, as well as dual-degree pathways. The school will include computer science and cybersecurity majors and a minor in game design.

�þ�� President Connie Ledoux Book said Walz’s background aligns with Elon’s vision for the new school.

“The launch of the School of Engineering and Computing represents an exciting step forward for �þ��,” Book said. “Dr. Walz brings a rare combination of academic leadership, industry engagement and commitment to student-centered education. His leadership building engineering programs, supporting faculty excellence and preparing graduates for meaningful careers will position the school for continued growth and distinction.”

Walz has spent more than three decades as a faculty member, researcher and academic administrator. During his tenure as president of Milwaukee School of Engineering, he led the development of a comprehensive strategic plan, launched the institution’s first comprehensive fundraising campaign, expanded academic offerings in computer science and artificial intelligence, strengthened student retention initiatives and oversaw significant investments in academic facilities and student success programs.

Under his leadership, Milwaukee School of Engineering achieved record �þ�� enrollment, increased student diversity, expanded industry partnerships and raised more than $150 million in philanthropic support for capital projects and academic initiatives.

Before becoming president, Walz served as dean of the , where he led efforts to establish a common first-year engineering program, expanded student success resources and strengthened relationships with industry partners. Earlier leadership roles at Virginia Tech and Yale University included overseeing faculty recruitment, program growth and research initiatives while maintaining active �þ�� and scholarship responsibilities.

Throughout his career, Walz has emphasized strategic planning, student retention, faculty support and partnerships with industry and community organizations. He has also championed initiatives that broaden participation in engineering and technology fields and expand pathways for students to connect classroom learning with professional experiences.

Dr. John Walz

Walz said the opportunity to help shape a new school at Elon was particularly appealing because of the university’s emphasis on engaged learning and interdisciplinary collaboration. He also expressed gratitude to Book, Kohn and members of the search committee for the opportunity.

“I am deeply honored and excited to be selected as the inaugural dean of the School of Engineering and Computing,” Walz said. “I have long admired Elon’s commitment to engaged learning and believe it provides an ideal environment for educating the next generation of engineers and computer scientists.

“The combination of Elon’s strengths in the liberal arts and its investment in engineering and computing creates a unique opportunity to prepare graduates with both the technical expertise and leadership skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving, globally connected world.”

Walz earned a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in chemical engineering at Tulane University before completing a Doctor of Philosophy in chemical engineering at Carnegie Mellon University. He and his wife, Moira, have three daughters.

About �þ��

�þ�� is a nationally recognized leader in engaged, experiential learning that prepares graduates to be creative, resilient, and ethical citizens and leaders.

At Elon, more than 7,000 students learn through hands-on experiences and close working relationships with faculty and staff who prioritize �þ�� and mentoring. The curriculum is grounded in the liberal arts and sciences with emphasis on global experiences and career development. More than 80 �þ�� majors are complemented by professional and graduate programs in law, business, education and health care. Elon is ranked No. 1 for excellence in �þ�� þ�� by U.S. News & World Report.

Elon’s academic divisions include Elon College, the College of Arts and Sciences; the Martha and Spencer Love School of Business; the School of Communications; the Dr. Jo Watts Williams School of Education; the School of Health Sciences; the School of Engineering and Computing; and the School of Law, with programs in Greensboro and Charlotte, North Carolina.

In 2025, �þ�� and Queens University of Charlotte announced plans to merge institutions. Final approval from the U.S. Department of Education is anticipated by 2028.

Carnegie Classification for Community Engagement celebrated at campus gathering

Eric Townsend — Wed, 25 Mar 2026 17:53:43 +0000

Elon leaders, faculty, staff and community partners gathered on March 6, 2026, to celebrate the university’s latest recognition from the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching.

The Carnegie Community Engagement Classification, awarded to a select group of U.S. colleges and universities, affirms �þ��’s integration of community-based experiences into �þ��, research and campus life.

The classification recognizes the university’s deep commitment to community and civic engagement, and it follows a recent U.S. News & World Report ranking naming Elon second in the nation for service-learning.

In her remarks at an afternoon reception in the Koury Athletic Center, Elon President Connie Book said the Carnegie designation reflects extensive and coordinated effort across disciplines and divisions. She noted that Elon has expanded community-engaged courses by more than 30% in the past decade, with faculty participation rising nearly 50%, and she highlighted partnerships ranging from local schools and health clinics to nonprofit and civic organizations.

�þ�� President Connie Ledoux Book

Book described community engagement as “a brave space,” where outcomes are not always predictable, but where collaboration creates meaningful opportunities for students and partners alike.

As the university looks ahead, Book said, the designation sets a new benchmark for impact. “We want to improve the quality of life for all people in our community,” she added.

In welcoming remarks, Vice President for Student Life Jon Dooley labeled the recognition “a reflection of our strong collaboration between Student Life, Academic Affairs and community partners,” and Associate Provost Jen Platania said the honor was one that acknowledges the intentional integration of community engagement into �þ�� and campus life.

“It reflects the work of faculty who designed meaningful community-based learning experiences, the staff who support sustaining those efforts, and community partners who collaborate with us in ways that enrich our students and strengthen our shared work,” Platania said. “This recognition belongs to all of you. It affirms the culture of engagement that defines Elon, where our students connect knowledge and purpose, and develop as thoughtful and engaged citizens.”

Elon partners with Duke University graduate students to mentor future faculty through Preparing Future Faculty program

sdarmelio — Wed, 25 Feb 2026 15:27:40 +0000

The yearlong Preparing Future Faculty (PFF) program connects Duke University graduate students who aspire to be faculty with mentors at numerous institutions, including �þ��, to offer a look at the role faculty members have within a university. This year, eight Duke University graduate students chose Elon as their mentoring site.

At Elon, the eight graduate students are paired with faculty mentors across disciplines within Elon College, the College of Arts and Sciences. Throughout the academic year, the graduate students visit campus to observe classes, attend department and faculty meetings, and, in some cases, teach. The goal is to provide a comprehensive view of what it means to be a faculty member at a university like Elon.

Tedd Wimperis, assistant professor of classical languages, is serving as a mentor to Tara Wells, a Duke University graduate student in classical studies.

“As the PFF program is intended to introduce graduate students into the many roles that faculty have within a university, I see my role as being a guide, a source of examples, and a point of contact for the mentee to experience faculty life at a liberal arts college,” Wimperis said.

Wimperis and Wells typically meet twice a month, sometimes informally over coffee and other times on campus for class visits or meetings. This is the third time Wimperis has served as a PFF mentor.

“I see it especially as a way of giving aspiring faculty a leg up in the transition from a graduate program to a faculty position,” Wimperis said. “I’m able to offer my mentee information and experience that I wish I had when I was in their position; knowing more about the job market, how to combine �þ�� and research productively, how universities work beyond the classroom and how to contribute to a thriving academic program.”

Preparing graduate students for a broader ecosystem is a central focus of the program. Wimperis hopes Wells leaves the experience with insight into �þ�� strategies, grant writing, the job market and work-life balance.

“As faculty, you’re responsible for a much wider array of responsibilities,” Wimperis said. “A big point, I think, is the importance of being part of a team. Becoming not only a great teacher, scholar, and mentor of students, but also a supportive colleague, is a recipe for success in the transition to faculty life.”

For Wells, the program has offered both professional insight and meaningful connections.

“The PFF program allows us to learn about what it’s like to be a faculty member at different types of institutions, such as small liberal arts colleges, large research-focused universities, state schools, community colleges and historically black colleges and universities,” Wells said. “Above all else, the most meaningful aspect of the program has been the opportunity to meet people from an unbelievable range of academic backgrounds and positions.”

Participants in the program attend visits to partner institutions, group meetings, a kickoff dinner with deans from participating schools and informal gatherings that allow the graduate students to reflect on their experiences together.

“I cherish the connections the program has made possible for me,” Wells said.

Her mentorship with Wimperis has been particularly impactful.

“Tedd has been great to work with,” Wells said. “He has shared interesting and useful information about his experiences being both part-time and full-time faculty. Tedd also takes particular care in ensuring that I am getting what I want and need as a mentee, which I greatly appreciate.”

Having a mentor in her discipline has allowed Wells to apply broader program lessons to the field of classical studies.

“It’s been nice to have a faculty mentor in my discipline, while also having the balance of meeting many people outside of my area of study,” Wells said.

During the campus visit to Elon, the graduate students were welcomed by Assistant Provost for Academic Excellence and Integrity Angela Lewellyn and participated in a junior faculty panel featuring faculty in their first or second year at Elon. The panelists offered advice about the job search process and the early years of faculty life. The graduate students also had the opportunity to meet with Elon students.

“Hearing directly from students of the same age and level that I would be working with in the next few years gives me a chance to understand their perspectives, which is invaluable for providing the best experience and support for them,” Wells said.

As Wells looks ahead to completing her doctorate in 2027 and entering the faculty job market, she said the program has helped her think intentionally about supporting students, general advice and preparing for interviews.

“My biggest goal in life is to help others,” she said. “I am looking forward to making a difference in my students’ lives.”

Alumna Joan Danieley ’82 makes generous estate gift to endow professorship

Jaleh Hagigh — Fri, 20 Feb 2026 18:03:31 +0000

Joan Danieley ’82

Inspired by her Elon education, Joan Danieley ’82 has established a professorship that will focus on complex issues surrounding family histories and reconciliation.

The Joan Danieley Distinguished Professorship will support a faculty scholar in any field of study whose �þ�� and research explore family histories and how individuals and societies navigate issues of reconciliation.

The fields of study may include, but are not limited to, history, psychology, sociology, human service studies, English and communications. Topics of reconciliation may include the legacy of slavery, the aftermath of Nazi Germany, displacement of Native Americans, internment of Japanese Americans and the contemporary political divide.

Danieley, who is the niece of the late Elon President Emeritus J. Earl Danieley ’46, is passionate about the lessons society and individuals can learn from exploring issues of identity, ancestry and cultural heritage.

Danieley was deeply moved after watching the PBS documentary series, “Finding Your Roots,” hosted by renowned Harvard scholar Henry Louis Gates, Jr. The series explores the ancestry of celebrities and other well-known individuals from diverse backgrounds, some of whom have discovered family connections to slavery and the Holocaust. By taking viewers deep into the past, Gates seeks to demonstrate our common humanity.

“As I watched ‘Finding Your Roots,’ I was stunned by how family history and reconciling our pasts impacts us today,” Danieley said. “All these years later, the impact is palpable and the reconciliation continues.”

Danieley recalled learning about her own family history after reading the book, “Shuttle & Plow: A History of Alamance County, North Carolina,” written by Elon Professor Emerita Carole W. Troxler and William Vincent. Danieley said the book “completely changed my life.”

“In that book, they wrote about slavery and that my great-great-grandfather, Henry Hubbard Danieley, was rabidly anti-slavery,” she said. “But my great-grandmother’s family owned lots of slaves. We are all a mixture of contradictions upon which we layer the values we choose as our personal values.”

Elon’s values inspired Danieley to make her estate gift to establish the professorship, which she hopes will encourage meaningful discussions among students and faculty.

“Elon’s commitment to diversity, integrity, collaboration and respect for differences aligned with my values,” she said. “Putting Elon in my will acknowledges Elon’s effect on who I became and who I strive to be.”

The late President Emeritus J. Earl Danieley ’46

The Danieley family’s roots run deep at Elon. Earl Danieley was one of North Carolina’s strongest advocates for higher education. Beloved by generations of students and alumni who knew him as “Dr. D,” Earl Danieley grew up on a farm in Alamance County, North Carolina, not far from the Elon campus. He earned his degree in chemistry in 1946 and later that year joined the Elon faculty to teach chemistry, beginning a remarkable career that spanned 70 years. In 1957, at age 32, Danieley was named the sixth president of then-Elon College and guided the college to a new level of quality during his 16-year term, making improvements in academic standards and faculty credentials. He retired from the presidency in 1973 and returned to the classroom to teach, later serving in a variety of administrative positions. He passed away in 2016 at age 92.

“My ancestors agreed on their love for �þ�� and its influence on its students and community,” Joan Danieley said. “It was there that I began to get clarity on my values and the willingness to discuss these complex issues. I hope my donation will further this conversation and ultimately improve the reconciliation among diverse communities with differing histories, social norms and how we came into being.”

Provost Rebecca Kohn thanked Danieley for investing in faculty scholars and student learning.

“The entire Elon community is indebted to Joan Danieley for recognizing the importance of investing in life-changing teacher-scholar-mentors who play an essential role in preparing students for success on campus and beyond,” Kohn said.

“This gift is a powerful example of how philanthropy can advance rigorous scholarship, while also creating space for courageous, necessary conversations,” said Leanna Giles ’02, associate director of planned giving.

Danieley, a retired health care executive, earned her Elon degree in physical education and health from the Dr. Jo Watts Williams School of Education in 1982 and earned master’s and law degrees from Tulane University.

“Leaving a legacy of love and reconciliation is how I want to be remembered,” she said. “It’s as simple as that.”

Make An Impact

To learn how you can make an impact at Elon through your estate, contact Leanna Giles ’02, associate director of planned giving, at (336) 278-5798 or lgiles@elon.edu.

Alan Russell awarded full-year sabbatical to study the use of mathematics in popular fiction

sdarmelio — Wed, 18 Feb 2026 13:20:17 +0000

When Associate Professor Alan Russell talks about mathematical fiction, he describes stories that spark curiosity, narratives that invite readers to think mathematically without turning fiction into a textbook. For instance:

In “Contact” by Carl Sagan, mathematics becomes a universal language through which humanity deciphers a mysterious signal from space.
In “Flatland: A Romance of Many Dimensions” by Edwin A. Abbott, a two-dimensional world becomes the setting for exploring geometry, dimensionality and new ways of understanding reality.
The “Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time” by Mark Haddon uses mathematical patterns, prime numbers and logic to shape how the narrator understands the world.

These works and others like them, he said, illustrate how stories can encourage readers to explore concepts such as infinity, probability and logic.

“In mathematical fiction, math is not just decoration,” Russell said. “The characters, plot or main ideas must connect to mathematics that can be explored and shared. A reader should be able to discover a real concept, such as geometry, infinity, patterns, probability or logic, and feel invited to understand it more deeply.”

Russell’s interest in mathematical fiction as a distinct subgenre of science fiction and literature will be supported in 2026-2027 with a full-year, full pay sabbatical at �þ�� as he studies that ways in which mathematical ideas can be woven into compelling and educational storytelling.

The defining feature of mathematical fiction, Russell said, is that it leads the reader toward real mathematical curiosity and further study. The longtime faculty member in the Department of Mathematics will work to establish a clearer definition for mathematical fiction, a genre that currently lacks formal treatment in academic literature.

His research, which won the support of �þ��’s Faculty Research and Development Committee, will also explore how storytelling can influence attitudes toward mathematics and serve as a tool in mathematics education.

“My work combines creative writing and mathematics by using narrative as a vehicle for mathematical thinking,” Russell said. “Rather than presenting mathematics solely through traditional instructional methods, I explore how mathematical concepts, structures, and ways of thinking can be embedded within stories that appeal to readers and invite curiosity.”

This work builds on Russell’s long-standing interest in interdisciplinary �þ�� and research. His earlier work examined the intersection of mathematics, origami and mathematics education, including the creation of COR 3250: Math Origami in 2003 and nearly two decades of related publications, presentations and grant work.

“That work showed how artistic practices can deepen mathematical understanding,” Russell said. “This sabbatical project builds directly on that foundation by applying similar interdisciplinary principles, using storytelling instead of origami to engage learners.”

To deepen his understanding of creative narrative, Russell completed a Master of Fine Arts in writing popular fiction.

“Receiving a full‑year sabbatical allows me to approach this work with the depth, rigor, and sustained focus it requires,” Russell said. “Professionally, I hope this establishes a new line of interdisciplinary scholarship that I can pursue at Elon. Personally, it brings together my interests in mathematics, mathematics education, and creative writing into a single project.”

Following his sabbatical, Russell plans to integrate the results of this research into his courses related to mathematics education and interdisciplinary learning. He has plans to propose a new course focused on mathematical fiction.

Elon’s Faculty Research and Development Committee selected Russell for the competitive sabbatical in recognition of the project’s originality and scope.

“The definition and development of ‘mathematical fiction’ will advance pioneering research through a robust plan for producing high-quality scholarship on this unconventional connection,” said Juan Leal Ugalde, associate professor of Spanish in the Department of World Languages and Cultures. “This multidisciplinary approach which will bring meaningful benefits to our academic community.”

Faculty are encouraged to apply for sabbaticals if they are conducting extensive research or engaged in significant additional study that will result in their professional development. At Elon, faculty may apply for full-year/full-pay sabbatical, a leave of one-half of a full year’s �þ�� load at full salary, or for a leave of absence full academic year at half salary.

Since joining Elon in 1997, Russell has received two external grants, including a $1.7 million National Science Foundation grant focused on origami, engineering, art, mathematics and education in collaboration with colleagues at North Carolina State University. He also received a Japan Foundation grant supporting professional development and classroom activities related to origami and Japanese culture for colleagues in the Alamance Burlington School System.

“This project represents a natural continuation of my interdisciplinary work at Elon,” Russell said. “Just as origami allowed me to connect mathematics with art, mathematical fiction offers a new way to connect mathematics with storytelling. I see this as work that can benefit students, educators and the broader public while strengthening Elon’s reputation for innovative, cross‑disciplinary scholarship.”

�þ�� debuts “Phoenix Summer” high school residential summer camp

sdarmelio — Mon, 16 Feb 2026 20:17:32 +0000

�þ�� will host a two-week long residential summer camp in July for rising high school juniors and seniors who will explore potential academic interests and prepare for transition to college.

Registration is now open for “Phoenix Summer” set for July 6-17, 2026, on �þ��’s campus in Alamance County. The program will be led by faculty in collaboration with the Office of the Provost, Elon College, the College of Arts and Sciences and Undergraduate Admissions.

�þ�� will live in residence halls, dine on campus and take part in daily programming designed to mirror the rhythm of college life. Phoenix Summer invites students to immerse themselves in hands-on, college-style academics while fostering curiosity, community and independence.

�þ�� will select two courses to focus on throughout the program. Options include:

Order in the Court! An introduction to Law and Justice
Chemistry in the Kitchen
Exploring Astronomical and Poetic Light
Start-Up Spring: Concept to Creation

During the day, students will participate in their courses. Evenings and weekends are packed with creative activities, social events, off-campus excursions, signature Elon experiences and more to help students connect with peers. The programming blends academic rigor with social-emotional well-being.

The fee for the two-week residential experience is $4,000. Limited seats are available.

“Phoenix Summer is more than a camp — it’s a two-week college immersion program where students live on campus, explore big ideas, participate in engaging hands-on learning and begin to see themselves as part of the Elon Community,” said Theresa Higgins, academic coordinator for alternative start programs.

For more information about Phoenix Summer and registration details, visit or contact Theresa Higgins, academic coordinator for alternative start programs, at thiggins7@elon.edu.

Registration now open for �þ��’s ‘AI Play’ middle school summer program

sdarmelio — Mon, 16 Feb 2026 13:21:20 +0000

�þ�� will host a weeklong summer day camp in June for middle school students who will learn more about artificial intelligence through hands-on learning and digital game design.

Registration is now open for “AI Play” set for June 15-19, 2026, in Lindner Hall on Elon’s campus in Alamance County. The program will be led by faculty in the Department of Computer Science with assistance from �þ�� students, in collaboration with the Office of the Provost, Elon College, the College of Arts and Sciences and the Department of Computer Science.

Scheduled daily from 8:45 a.m. – 3:30 p.m., AI Play invites curious middle school students to explore the fundamentals of artificial intelligence while building confidence in operating, designing and creating with emerging technologies.

Throughout the week, campers will learn how artificial intelligence is used in digital game design, combining creativity with coding and problem-solving skills.

Each day of the camp will focus on a different AI principle, allowing students to play, create and develop their own projects and gain hands-on experience with AI concepts.

The fee for the week is $500 and includes lunch and snacks. Limited seats are available. The program will be hosted inside Lindner Hall in the Lambert Academic Village with group visits to other campus locations.

“AI Play is a fun, engaging summer camp designed with several hands-on, unplugged, playful activities for students to learn AI concepts,” said Alexis Goslen, assistant professor of computer science. “�þ�� will learn how robots interpret their environment with a robot relay, how AI systems make choices by classifying candy, the ethics of using AI and more.”

For more information about AI Play and registration details, visit or contact Alexis Goslen, assistant professor of computer science, at agoslen2@elon.edu.

Elon begins planning transition to Canvas learning management system

Daniel Statum — Thu, 12 Feb 2026 14:30:11 +0000

�þ�� will begin planning a transition to Canvas by Instructure as its learning management system, following an extensive evaluation process led by Teaching and Learning Technologies (TLT) in partnership with Academic Affairs and informed by faculty, staff and student feedback.

The transition planning phase reflects a clear institutional decision and does not represent an immediate change to how courses are taught or delivered. Moodle will remain fully supported; no Spring 2026 courses are affected, and no action is required from faculty or staff at this time.

Why now?

Over the fall semester, Teaching and Learning Technologies, in partnership with academic and IT colleagues, conducted a comprehensive review of the university’s learning management system. That process included open forums, surveys and structured feedback from more than 125 faculty and staff members and more than 400 �þ�� and graduate students.

The evaluation highlighted the importance of adopting a learning management system to support current and evolving approaches to learning and engagement.

Beginning the transition planning now allows the university to move forward deliberately, ensuring the transition is well supported and aligned with Elon’s broader commitment to engaged learning and student success.

Why Canvas?

Canvas was selected following a careful review of faculty and student input, market analysis and platform capabilities.

“This decision was guided by the needs and hopes of our faculty and students,” said Rebecca Kohn, provost and vice president of academic affairs. “Our community asked for a system that is reliable and flexible; one that can adapt to diverse approaches to �þ�� and learning. Canvas emerged as the platform that best aligns with those priorities as we look ahead.”

What this means and what’s next

As planning moves forward, a few key points may be helpful to keep in mind:

Moodle remains fully supported through the transition.
No action is required from LMS users at this time.
No change will be made to how courses are taught or delivered for Spring 2026.

Teaching and Learning Technologies will lead the transition process in close partnership with academic and IT colleagues. TLT will coordinate training, support and future communications, ensuring faculty, staff and students have clarity and guidance well in advance of any changes.

As details take shape, including a clearer transition timeline and answers to frequently asked questions, TLT will share updates with the campus community. Additional information is expected before March.

“Transitioning to a modern, user-friendly platform like Canvas supports engaged learning and student success,” said Kelly Reimer, senior director of Teaching and Learning Technologies. “Our goal during this early phase of work is to establish a strong foundation for both the technical transition and how we will support faculty and students in ways that minimize disruption to �þ�� and learning.”

Faculty engagement & Next Steps

Faculty involvement remains central as the transition planning continues. Opportunities for faculty engagement, support and training will be communicated by Teaching and Learning Technologies as plans are refined.

“As a member of the LMS evaluation project team, I was grateful for the quantity and depth of feedback we received from colleagues and students,” said Eric Bauer, faculty fellow for technology and assistant professor of biology. “I’m excited to see how my colleagues creatively use the many new tools within Canvas to make their classes even more engaging and easy for students to navigate and look forward to exploring with them the possibilities of the new LMS.”

The transition to Canvas will be implemented over time, with ongoing communication and support as the university moves through the next academic year.

Eleven Elon seniors and alumni named semifinalists for the Fulbright U.S. Student Program

Nicole Galante — Fri, 30 Jan 2026 19:39:24 +0000

Eleven Elon students and alumni have been recommended as semifinalists for the 2026-27 Founded in 1946, the Fulbright Program is the flagship international educational exchange program sponsored by the U.S. State Department designed to increase mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of other countries.

Fulbright grantees are not just funded to teach or research—they are expected to serve as valuable cultural ambassadors in their respective host countries, both representing the United States and learning about their new communities.

Fulbright grants are awarded on the basis of academic and professional achievement, as well as demonstrated leadership potential in their fields. As semifinalists, these Elon students and alumni have been recommended by the National Screening Committee of the Institute of International Education for final consideration by review panels in their respective host countries. Semifinalists will be notified of their final award status this spring, beginning in late March, barring any delays or disruptions at the federal level.

This year’s Fulbright semifinalists are:

Azul Bellot ’26

Psychology and Sociolinguistics
Semifinalist for a Fulbright English �þ�� assistantship to Spain

Jo Bogart ’26

Creative Writing and Classical Studies
Semifinalist for a Fulbright study/research grant to the United Kingdom

Anya Bratić ’26

International & Global Studies and Public Policy
Semifinalist for a Fulbright English �þ�� assistantship to Vietnam

Rony Dahdal ’26

Computer Science, Math, and Philosophy
Semifinalist for a Fulbright study/research grant to Sweden

Jubitza Figueroa ’21

Political Science
Semifinalist for a Fulbright English �þ�� assistantship to Spain

Alex Fleischmann ’26

Psychology
Semifinalist for a Fulbright English �þ�� assistantship to South Korea

Rebecca Lovasco ’26

Psychology
Semifinalist for a Fulbright study/research grant to Taiwan

Caroline Mitchell ’26

Middle Grades Math and Special Education
Semifinalist for a Fulbright English �þ�� assistantship to Bulgaria

Molly Moylan ’26

Biochemistry
Semifinalist for a Fulbright English �þ�� assistantship to Spain

Madison Powers ’25

Journalism
Semifinalist for a Fulbright English �þ�� assistantship to Spain

Aryanna Vindas ’25

Dance Performance & Choreography
Semifinalist for a Fulbright English �þ�� assistantship to South Korea

Elon students and alumni interested in the Fulbright Program or other nationally competitive fellowships are invited to contact the National and International Fellowships Office. To begin the Fulbright application process, please visit the Fulbright Application Process page to register for one of the following virtual Fulbright information sessions during the spring semester:

Wednesday, March 11 at 4 p.m.
Thursday, April 9 at 4:30 p.m.
Thursday, May 21 at 12 p.m.

Office of the Provost | Today at Elon | �þ���

�þ��� publishes 2025 Provost’s Report

John Walz named inaugural dean of �þ���’s School of Engineering and Computing

About �þ���