Laughlin among 37 higher education professionals named to AASCU’s 2026 Becoming a Provost Academy

AMERICUS, Ga. (July 6, 2026) — The American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) has selected Georgia Southwestern State University’s (GSW) Mark Laughlin, D.M.A., for its Becoming a Provost Academy (BAPA). He is one of 37 higher education professionals chosen for the program, which is designed to prepare emerging academic leaders for the complexities of the provost role.

Developed in partnership with the American Academic Leadership Institute (AALI), BAPA provides participants with targeted preparation in the key areas that define effective academic leadership. The program is geared toward experienced deans, associate and assistant provosts, and other academic administrators. It focuses on cultivating the skills necessary to succeed as a chief academic officer.

“I am honored to have been selected for this year’s Becoming a Provost Academy,” stated Laughlin, who currently serves as GSW’s associate vice president for academic affairs, director of institutional effectiveness and planning, and SACSCOC accreditation liaison.  “It is an excellent opportunity to collaborate with colleagues from across the country and to support one another as we navigate the evolving complexities of higher education. I am grateful to Georgia Southwestern and to my Provost, Dr. Rachel Abbott, for their continued support of professional development and leadership opportunities.”

BAPA cohort members gain a deeper understanding of institutional priorities while also strengthening their ability to lead in a rapidly changing higher education landscape. Participants engage in peer learning, share perspectives, and build lasting relationships that extend beyond the yearlong program.

“It is encouraging to see such a strong group of academic leaders preparing to take on one of the most critical roles at an institution,” said Terry Brown, AASCU’s vice president of academic innovation and transformation. “We’re excited to support this cohort as they continue to grow as leaders and expand their impact within their campus communities.”

Since its launch, BAPA has helped advance the careers of numerous academic leaders, with 225 alumni moving into provost positions and 39 progressing to college and university presidencies or chancellorships.

View the full 2026 cohort.

About AASCU

The American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) is a Washington, D.C.-based higher education association that represents the sector of over 500 regional public colleges, universities, and systems whose members share a learning- and teaching-centered culture, a historic commitment to serving today’s students, and a dedication to research and creativity that advances their regions’ economic progress and cultural development. These are institutions delivering America’s promise.