Dr. Jason Hardgrave has been named Assistant Provost for Academic Affairs at the University of Southern Indiana, effective January 1. He had served as Interim Assistant Provost for Academic Affairs since July 2023.
As Assistant Provost for Academic Affairs, Hardgrave assists the Provost in managing many different facets of undergraduate and graduate education programs, including general administration with college deans, the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning, Online Learning, Disability Resources, the Honors Program and Themed-Living Communities.
“I am pleased that Dr. Hardgrave will continue as the Assistant Provost,” says Dr. Shelly Blunt, Provost. “He plays a critical role in many key projects for the University, such as the Quality Initiative for the Higher Learning Commission reaccreditation, the implementation of Watermark and many key retention efforts. He brings a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to the position that will benefit our students and the University.”
Hardgrave has been with USI for over 21 years. He previously served as Chair of the History Department and Associate Professor of History. As Chair, he guided students to success while developing promotional guidelines, assessment procedures and a merit review rubric for the department.
He actively collaborates with the Teacher Education Department to support student preparedness, curriculum standards and licensure and accreditation processes. He also works closely with the University’s College Achievement Program (CAP), fostering strong connections with local teachers to expand dual-credit opportunities for USI students.
Previously, Hardgrave served as both Chair and Vice Chair of Faculty Senate, participated in the Academic Program Review and chaired the University Promotions Committee. He has also contributed to various committees and extracurricular activities at USI, including the Economic Benefits Committee, Core 39 Committee and serving as Faculty Advisor for the USI Fencing Club and the University’s chapter of Phi Alpha Theta National History Honor Society.
His research and teaching focus on pre-modern Europe, specializing in law, trade and gender. He holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree in history from the University of Wyoming and a doctorate in history from the University of Kansas.
