Assumption University Appoints Chad Rohman as Provost
Assumption University today announced that Chad Rohman, a distinguished academic leader, scholar, and longtime dean at Dominican University in Illinois, has been appointed Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs effective June 1, 2026, following a nationwide search.
Rohman brings more than two decades of experience in higher education as a scholar, professor, and administrator, including extensive leadership in academic affairs, program innovation, and faculty development. He currently serves as Dean of the Rosary College of Arts, Education, and Sciences at Dominican University outside Chicago, Illinois.
Dominican, sponsored by the Sinsinawa Dominican Sisters, is a private Catholic university similar in size to Assumption with 3,588 undergraduate and graduate students. It is recognized as one of the best small universities in the Midwest, ranked #25 in U.S. News & World Report’s list of more than 160 regional institutions. It is the highest-ranking small Catholic university in Illinois, and the #1 overall best value in the state.
As Provost at Assumption, Rohman will guide strategy as the University’s chief academic officer, supporting faculty excellence and ensuring the continued strength of its distinctive mission rooted in liberal education and the Catholic intellectual tradition.
“Assumption is committed to forming students through rigorous academic inquiry, meaningful relationships, and a shared pursuit of truth,” said Assumption University President Greg Weiner. “Dr. Rohman’s commitment to Catholic liberal education and his dedication to student and faculty success are deeply aligned with Assumption’s values. His record of academic leadership shows that he will be an outstanding partner in the University’s strategic plan, Thrive, as we pursue innovation that best serves the needs of our students and prepares them for meaningful lives and career success. We are proud to welcome him to Assumption at a pivotal moment in our history.”
Throughout his leadership at Dominican, Rohman has been widely recognized for his ability to guide the institution through growth and change while strengthening academic quality and commitment to mission. As dean of Dominican’s largest academic division, he has overseen hundreds of faculty members, supported the development of new academic programs—including a data science major and interdisciplinary offerings—and led efforts to ensure that academic programs respond thoughtfully to the evolving needs of students and the world. He has also played a central role in institutional planning and innovation, including the development of strategic plans and the expansion of partnerships with other institutions.
Rohman is an accomplished scholar of nineteenth-century American literature, with a particular focus on American literary realism and figures including Mark Twain and Catholic author Flannery O’Connor. He has edited and published several scholarly books and articles. He previously served as editor of The Mark Twain Annual and was recently elected as the president of The Mark Twain Circle—the leading professional society committed to the study of the great humorist’s life and works.
“I am very eager to join other dedicated faculty and staff in supporting Assumption University’s enduring commitment to mission, faculty and staff excellence, and student support,” Rohman said. “Assumption’s strategic plan, Thrive, is both aspirational and invitational: it outlines Assumption’s deep commitment to supporting faculty, staff, and students, and its commitment to maintain and grow an innovative and rigorous curriculum to meet the needs of its graduates entering into a rapidly changing world. Assumption is at an exciting time in its long history of offering its students a high-quality liberal arts and sciences curriculum founded in mission. Working together, we will continue to position Assumption University as a leader in preparing its students to thrive—and to graduate from Assumption with both essential skills and a commitment to using those skills to work toward the greater good.”
Rohman’s career reflects a sustained commitment to shared governance and collaborative leadership. He has served in numerous university roles, including department chair, director of core curriculum, and faculty trustee, working closely with faculty and administrators to support institutional priorities and student success.
He earned a Ph.D. in English from Bowling Green State University, an M.A. in English from Michigan State University, and a B.A. in English from Michigan State University.