University of Akron Provost John Wiencek is resigning from his role as head of the university’s academics and returning to faculty.
Wiencek has been executive vice president and provost of the university since April 2020. He’s a chemical and biochemical engineer by training.
In a message to colleagues, Wiencek said he thought the university, under new president R.J. Nemer, “is best served having a new provost who can also provide new perspectives and vigor as well.”
Nemer has been president since May 2024; Wiencek was in support of university trustees’ actions to push his predecessor, Gary Miller, from the presidency and install Nemer in the role.
Since taking the helm of the university, Nemer has begun a process known as retrenchment that could lead to the cuts of more than 30 faculty members.
In his message, Wiencek said it was the right time for him to return to the faculty because Nemer “is forging a new vision for the University of Akron.” He said the university is faced with difficult choices but is working together to find a way forward.
“Fresh ideas and renewed energy come to mind when I think of President Nemer,” Wiencek wrote.
Wiencek’s resignation will be effective at the end of the spring semester or earlier, pending a search for his replacement. He will take faculty improvement leave before returning to teach. Chemical engineering is among the departments that are the subject of a merger under the retrenchment proposal.
The search process for Wiencek’s replacement will move forward following consultation with the Board of Trustees, deans, faculty leadership and others, according to Wiencek’s letter to colleagues. A spokesperson for the university said she had no more details about the search plan, which will be communicated by Nemer.
“I have done my best to care for this great university, and I will continue to support our students, faculty, staff, President Nemer and the Board of Trustees to advance The University of Akron,” Wiencek said.