WATERVILLE, MAINE, April 2025 — Thomas College is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Jeremy Qualls as its next Provost following a comprehensive national search. A visionary leader with over two decades of experience in higher education, Dr. Qualls joins the College from the University of Southern Maine and will officially begin his tenure in July of 2025. Prior to joining USM, Dr. Qualls served as Director of Academic Resources and Planning at Sonoma State University in California. At USM he served as Dean and Vice President of Research and Innovation.
Dr. Qualls is known nationally for his work in STEM research, faculty support, and interdisciplinary program building. With a background in physics and a passion for bridging academics and real-world application, he brings a strategic mindset that aligns with the College’s commitment to delivering career-focused education across a variety of academic disciplines.
“It is a true honor to join Thomas College—an institution with a proud legacy, a vibrant community, and a mission deeply rooted in preparing students for meaningful success in both their personal and professional lives,” said Dr. Qualls. “I am genuinely excited about the opportunities ahead, particularly as we look to grow and expand our academic offerings, including in high-impact areas like STEM, all while honoring our strong foundation in the liberal arts. In a world that is evolving faster than ever, the ability to think critically, communicate effectively, and lead with empathy is more important than ever. Together, we will continue to empower our students—not just to build careers, but to lead lives of purpose, resilience, and impact.”
As Provost, Dr. Jeremy Qualls will serve as Thomas College’s chief academic officer, overseeing academic affairs and leading efforts to enhance academic programs, strengthen faculty support, and deepen community and industry partnerships.
The College also announced today the launch of two new academic programs in high-demand fields: a bachelor’s degree in Health Sciences beginning fall of 2025 and a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling scheduled for fall of 2026. These programs complement Thomas College’s longstanding strengths in business, education, and technology and reflect its continued focus on aligning academic offerings with workforce needs in Maine and beyond.
“Dr. Qualls finds great joy in his work, and he brings a rare combination of deep academic experience, innovative thinking, and creative leadership,” said Dr. Jeannine Uzzi, President of Thomas College. “He is always envisioning the future of higher education, and he will ensure that Thomas graduates are prepared to meet the many challenges of the coming decades. Dr. Qualls is the ideal academic leader for this moment in Thomas College’s evolution.”
The introduction of the Health Sciences major builds on momentum from last year, when the College received a $1 million grant from the Maine Department of Education to boost science instruction. The investment continued with the opening of new science labs, faculty additions, and the launch of new programs such as Biology. These advancements are part of Thomas College’s broader strategic plan to meet student demand and drive economic impact in Maine.
Dr. Qualls’s prior work includes statewide STEM initiatives, developing new interdisciplinary programs, scientific research, and helping secure major research and infrastructure funding. He is an active technical expert for Maine Health Innovations, start-up companies, and the National Science Foundation, demonstrating a strong ability to connect academic work with real-world impact.
He earned his Ph.D. and M.S. in Physics from Florida State University and his B.S. in Physics from East Tennessee State University.
“Dr. Jeremy Qualls understands the importance of building on what’s already working,” said Dr. Don Cragen, chair of the H. Allen Ryan School of Business at Thomas College. “He brings a perspective that respects the success of our business programs while opening new doors for collaboration across disciplines. I’m excited to work with him to strengthen the academic experience for all our students.”
Dr. Qualls is available for interviews upon request. For more information about Thomas College’s academic offerings, visit thomas.edu/academics.
About Thomas College:
U.S. News and World Report consistently ranks Thomas College as a top college in Maine for social mobility. Our clear career focus and one-of-a-kind Guaranteed Job Program™ makes it possible to advance faster in the arts and sciences, business, and education. Earn an undergraduate degree in three years and then choose from a variety of in-person or online graduate degree programs that can be completed in one-year or two. Located in Waterville, Maine, Thomas College is your pathway to a promising future, guaranteed. For more information visit thomas.edu or contact MacKenzie Riley Young at [email protected] or 207-859-1313. Find us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, and TikTok.