Wright State University names Jim Denniston provost, VP of student affairs
A leading Dayton-area higher education institution has appointed a university leader as vice president for academic affairs and provost.
Jim Denniston formally takes on the position effective immediately. He has been acting provost since Jan. 1, and members of Wright State's community have expressed positive feedback on his performance.
In this role, Denniston will be responsible for overseeing and directing the university's academic programs, research and faculty.
'Wright State's mission to transform the lives of students and serve our region resonates with my passion for expanding educational opportunities and fostering academic excellence,' Denniston said.
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Jim Denniston is vice president for academic affairs and provost of Wright State University.
Erin Pence
Denniston first joined Wright State in 2022 as the founding dean of the College of Health, Education and Human Services.
While in this role, he spearheaded the development of the college's first comprehensive strategic plan and restructured it into six schools to bolster student services and outcomes. He also launched the Bachelor of Science in Aviation Science and Technology program and co-led Wright State's Jed Campus initiative for supporting student mental health wellbeing.
'Dr. Denniston brings a set of shared values based on people, learning, relationships, sustainability and stewardship to the Office of Provost,' said Sue Edwards, president of Wright State. 'His experience developing transformational educational experiences and forging community partnerships will help our university further develop and enhance innovative academic programs that provide students with expanded educational and career opportunities.'
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Susan Edwards is president at Wright State University.
Erin Pence
Denniston, as a former psychology professor and chair at Appalachian State University, helped establish the university's clinical psychology doctoral program, an online bachelor of science in veterinary technology and overhauled the undergraduate psychology curriculum.
He also served as a commissioner on the American Psychological Association's Commission on Accreditation. Denniston currently serves on the Dayton Regional STEM School board and is set to soon be appointed to the Goodwill Easterseals Miami Valley Board of Trustees.
Denniston received his doctorate in cognitive psychology from the State University of New York at Binghamton, a master's degree in experimental psychology from Bucknell University and a bachelor's degree in psychology from New York University. He has mentored dozens of undergraduate researchers and has published over 20 peer-reviewed articles in associative learning.
'I look forward to collaborating with our dedicated faculty, staff and students to advance innovative programs, strengthen our community partnerships and ensure every student has access to a high-quality, affordable educational experience,' Denniston said.
As of 2024, Wright State had approximately 11,800 students and nearly 2,000 staff members, according to DBJ research. Additionally, U.S. News & World Report ranked WSU's undergraduate engineering and nursing programs at No. 156 and No. 182, respectively, in its 2025 Best National University Rankings.
Dayton-Area Colleges and Universities
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