Jill Fort, PhD, Named Next Academic Leader

Graceland University is pleased to announce the appointment of Jill Fort, PhD, as its next Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of Faculty. Fort will begin her new role on June 8, bringing with her over 15 years of higher education leadership experience and a proven commitment to student success, innovation, and academic excellence.

Fort comes to Graceland from Newman University in Wichita, Kansas, where she most recently served as Associate Vice President of Academic Affairs. Her previous leadership roles also include Interim Vice President of Academic Affairs and Dean of the School of Business. Over the course of her career, she has led key university-wide initiatives in accreditation, academic program development, grant management, student retention, and instructional innovation.

“We are excited to welcome Jill Fort, PhD, to the Graceland community,” said Joel D. Shrock, PhD, President of Graceland University. “Jill’s leadership experience, collaborative approach, and strong alignment with Graceland’s mission made her a clear choice. She brings energy, thoughtfulness, and deep strategic insight to the work of supporting faculty and advancing student learning. I look forward to working with her as we continue to grow and strengthen our academic offerings.”

A tenured professor of criminal justice and an MBA graduate, Fort has also played an instrumental role in securing and managing more than $6 million in grants aimed at expanding access to higher education in rural communities and supporting student mental health and success. Her efforts have included campus-wide retention strategies, the development of a new student success center, and partnerships with community colleges to expand outreach in underserved areas.

“I am deeply honored and truly excited to join the Graceland University community as Vice President for Academic Affairs and the Dean of Faculty,” said Fort. “Graceland’s mission and values align perfectly with my own commitment to student-centered education, academic innovation, and inclusive excellence. I look forward to working alongside the faculty and staff to foster academic excellence, expand opportunities for students, and build a shared vision for the future.”

The university also extends its heartfelt thanks to Jacqueline McGlade, who has served as interim Vice President for Academic Affairs over the past year. Her leadership and dedication have been instrumental during this time of transition.