The Provost serves as the chief academic officer at Lakeland Community College, providing critical leadership in academic and student affairs. Aligned with the College's Strategic Plan and Mission, the Provost's Office is dedicated to providing quality learning opportunities to prepare students for personal and professional succes in our global environment.
Areas Reporting to the Provost:
Welcome to Lakeland Community College,
As Provost and Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs, I serve as the chief academic officer of our institution, working with faculty and staff to ensure excellence in all educational programs.
My office oversees academic programs, curriculum development, and faculty affairs across Lakeland's campus. We strive to foster an environment where innovation, discovery, and practical learning flourish. Together with deans and department chairs, we ensure the highest standards of teaching excellence and student achievement.
The Office of the Provost is responsible for:
- Directing academic planning and program development
- Supervising faculty recruitment, development, and evaluation
- Administering academic policies and procedures
- Ensuring accreditation standards are met
- Allocating resources to support educational excellence
I encourage you to explore the many educational pathways and resources available at Lakeland Community College. My office welcomes discussions about initiatives that enhance our mission and prepare students for successful futures. Your achievements are central to our success, and we are invested in helping you reach your educational goals.
Wishing you academic success,
John R. Crooks, Ph.D.
Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs
Dr. John R. Crooks brings extensive leadership experience in higher education to his role as Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs at Lakeland Community College.
Dr. Crooks earned his Ph.D. in Biology from Bowling Green State University, bringing both scientific expertise and educational leadership to his administrative roles. His career spans more than two decades, including four years at Eastern Gateway Community College where he served as Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs and Interim President from 2020-2024, and fourteen years at Lorain County Community College where he served as Associate Provost from 2006-2020 and as Dean of the Division of Science and Mathematics from 1999-2006.Throughout his career, Dr. Crooks has also worked closely with the Ohio Department of Higher Education and the Higher Learning Commission.
In his role at Lakeland, Dr. Crooks will provide experienced leadership and oversight for the academic and student affairs divisions of the College.
-Dr. John R. Crooks