Liberty University announces leadership changes in academic administration

Liberty University is pleased to announce that Drs. Don Raleigh, Dave Brat, and Rich Diddams have been appointed to new leadership roles in academic administration ahead of the upcoming 2023-24 academic year.

Raleigh, Senior Associate Dean for Academic Operations at Liberty University College of Osteopathic Medicine (LUCOM), will be Dean of the School of Education. Brat, Dean of the School of Business and former Congressman, will serve as Vice Provost for Engagement and Public Relations. Diddams will expand his role as the Vice Provost of Engineering and Technology & Professional Engagement by serving as the Interim Dean for the School of Business.

These changes will ensure Liberty’s missional and operational success while the university continues to enjoy historic growth in enrollment and even greater opportunity for students.

“Don Raleigh, Rich Diddams, and Dave Brat’s extensive leadership backgrounds in academia, public service, and business make each of them exceptional fits for these crucial roles in academic administration. Each of their unique abilities will certainly serve to advance the university’s commitment to Train Champions for Christ,” said Dr. Scott Hicks, Provost and Chief Academic Officer.

Dr. Raleigh has decades of experience within K-12 education, serving in various roles as administrator, teacher, and coach. Prior to his role at LUCOM, Raleigh served as the superintendent of Pryor Public Schools for 13 years, where he was named the 2017 Oklahoma Association School Administrators (OASA) Superintendent of the Year and the OASA District 6 Superintendent of the Year three times (2012, 2015, 2017). Dr. Joe Wiegand’s service as the Interim Dean of the School of Education has been greatly appreciated as he graciously stepped in to serve in a crucial role during the past academic year.

Dr. Brat will bring his business, political, and academic expertise to enhance the university’s commitment to excellence in community outreach and public engagement. He will strategically advance and promote the university’s educational goals and objectives.

Dr. Diddams’ extensive and decorated military service and his successful business background will prove to add significant value to the School of Business.