USI Provost Mohammed Khayum announces retirement

After four years as Provost and 32 with the University of Southern Indiana in total, Dr. Mohammed Khayum has announced plans to retire effective January 1, 2024, including leave with pay from July 1, 2023, to December 31, 2023. He also served as Interim Provost from July 1, 2018, to January 1, 2019.

"It has been an honor and a privilege to serve this University for the past 32 years, especially these last four years as Provost," said Khayum. “I have been fortunate to be a part of significant developments at USI and grateful for the opportunity to work alongside colleagues to lay the groundwork for its future success. There has been much to be proud of during my time here, and I look forward to following this institution as it continues to develop and thrive.”

The University plans to launch a national search for the next Provost this spring with the hopes of having the position filled to coincide with Khayum’s retirement at the close of the Academic Year.

As Provost, Khayum has overseen numerous initiatives at USI including the creation of graduate and  undergraduate degree and non-degree programs; fostering the acceleration of online learning opportunities; enhancing the University’s engagement in community and economic development initiatives and regional economic analysis; playing an integral part in the development and implementation of the University’s three strategic plans since 2010; strengthening data integration and collaboration within the University particularly in relation to student recruitment and retention; among others.

“It is my great honor to thank Dr. Mohammed Khayum for his service to USI as Provost, Dean and Professor. There are very few members of the academy who are afforded the opportunity to offer vast contributions to the same institution within one’s career,” remarked Dr. Ronald S. Rochon, USI President. “Mohammed is a colleague, confidant, friend and an example of what academic excellence looks like. I wish him and Desiree peace, grace and good fortune as they enter their next season of life and new discovery while loving their grandchildren.”  

Prior to his time as Provost, Khayum served as Dean of USI's Romain College of Business from 2006 to 2018. He first joined the USI faculty in 1991, and served as a Professor, Department Chair and Associate Dean. During his 12 years as Dean, he twice led the extension of the College's business and accounting accreditations from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), oversaw the creation of an accelerated Master of Business Administration Program and worked to establish the Romain College of Business Innovative Speaker Series, which has brought major speakers such as T. Boone Pickens, Ben Bernanke, Oscar Salazar, General Colin L. Powell, USA (Ret.) and Steve Wozniak.  

As a faculty member, Khayum taught courses on global economic issues, statistics, micro- and macroeconomics and forecasting at the undergraduate and graduate levels. He has been published in multiple academic journals and has conducted economic impact studies and forecasts for both the University and for businesses and nonprofit organizations in the Tri-state area. Khayum has a bachelor's degree in economics from the University of Guyana, and master's and doctoral degrees in economics from Temple University in Pennsylvania.

The provost serves as the chief academic officer for USI, as well as oversees Outreach and Engagement, the David L. Rice Library, the Registrar’s Office, Institutional Analytics, Sponsored Projects & Research, Career Services and Internships, the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning, the Center for Adult Learner Success and the Center for International Programs. The provost is responsible for enhancing and furthering USI's academic programs and initiatives; supporting faculty development and aspirations; working with an engaged student body; collaborating with other institutions of higher education within Indiana as well as citizens, community leaders and local officials for the advancement of the University and the region; and working with legislators and others to help advocate for the University.