Office of the Provost
Provost and Chief Academic Officer
![](https://www.liberty.edu/provost/wp-content/uploads/sites/107/Scott-Hicks-20230712_0834JR.jpg)
Scott M. Hicks, Ph.D.
Dr. Scott Hicks came to Liberty University as a professor in 2007 before becoming Dean of the School of Business in 2012. In 2017 he was named Vice Provost of Graduate Education, followed by entering into his current role in 2018 as Provost and Chief Academic Officer.
By God’s grace, Scott has been able to lead the university in new initiatives and programs. During his tenure, the School of Business created over nine programs with over 65 cognates and/or concentrations, a Center for Entrepreneurship, developed strategic partnerships with global companies such as Adobe, Apple, Aruba, Cisco, and Oracle, and attained ACBSP accreditation for School of Business programs. He continues to be entrusted to oversee the higher education goals of the university as he presently serves as Provost.
Prior to coming to Liberty University, Scott served as Director of Retail Operations for Mansfield Oil Company, one of America’s largest Forbes 400 companies. His service in industry has provided him the practical experience necessary to add value to those in higher education. More importantly, he seeks to glorify God in pursuit of living out Luke 10:27 in his personal and professional life.
Dr. Hicks holds a Ph.D. in Business Administration with concentrations in Financial Management and International Business from Northcentral University, an M.B.A. from Liberty University, and a B.S. in Business Management with specializations in Finance and Management from Liberty University.
Vice Provosts and University Registrar
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Assistant Vice Provost of Engineering and Technology
Richard Diddams, D.B.A., CxA, LEED GA
![](https://www.liberty.edu/provost/wp-content/uploads/sites/107/Deanna-Keith.jpg)
Vice Provost of Institutional Effectiveness and Research
Deanna Keith, B.A., M.Ed., Ed.S., Ed.D.
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Vice Provost of Health Professions
Chris Kennedy, J.D.
![](https://www.liberty.edu/provost/wp-content/uploads/sites/107/Michael-Shenkle-20230411_5844JJ.jpg)
Vice Provost of Online Administration
Michael Shenkle, B.S., M.B.A., Ed.D.
![](https://www.liberty.edu/provost/wp-content/uploads/sites/107/Brian-Yates-20220411_41734RK.jpg)
Vice Provost of Resident Programs and Student Success
Brian Yates, B.S., M.Ed., Ed.D.
![](https://www.liberty.edu/provost/wp-content/uploads/sites/107/Jason-Byrd-20230912_9244CH.jpg)
University Registrar
Jason Byrd, B.S., M.B.A.
Deans of Colleges and Schools
Location
Green Hall 2656
1971 University Blvd, Lynchburg, VA 24515
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