SMU announced David Chard, dean of Simmons School of Education and Human Development, as its first candidate for the position of University Provost.

The announcement was made Sept. 30 around 4:45 p.m. via an administrative email sent to staff members and professors.

The provost position has been vacant since May 31 after prior Provost Paul Ludden chose to step down Feb. 23 to be closer to his family. The provost search committee has been looking for Ludden’s replacement since this spring.

Chard is the founding dean of the Annette Caldwell Simmons School of Education and Human Development where he is also a professor. He is the author or co-author of more than 100 refereed research articles, book chapters, books and technical reports on improving academic and social outcomes for a wide range of learners.

Before SMU, Chard was the associate dean for the College of Education at the University of Oregon. Chard attended the University of Central Michigan for his bachelor’s degree in mathematics/chemistry education and the University of Oregon for his master’s degree in special education.

Dean Chard will be interviewing with groups Oct. 5 and 6. There will be an open forum to meet with him Oct. 5 from 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. in Crum Auditorium.

Other candidates will appear Oct. 14, Oct. 15, Oct. 21, Oct. 22, Oct. 26 and Oct. 27.