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William T. Franz, Ph.D.
Interim Provost |
Randolph-Macon College President Robert R. Lindgren has appointed William T. Franz, Ph.D., to serve as interim provost of R-MC. A professor of physics, Franz has extensive experience in administration, including previously serving as interim dean from 2006 to 2007 and as associate dean of the college from 1990 to 1999.
“Bill is an effective leader with an unwavering commitment to Randolph-Macon College,” said Lindgren. “His experience with the faculty and proven success in administration will be immensely helpful as the College works towards our future goals.”
Franz has been a well-respected faculty member at R-MC since 1983. He was twice awarded the student-voted Thomas Branch Award for Excellence in Teaching in 1985 and 1988 and was also the recipient of the Samuel Nelson Gray Distinguished Faculty award. A critical faculty member of the physics department, Franz helped to create and introduce the College’s environmental studies program and has taught a wide spectrum of courses throughout his career. He is also a requested media expert on explaining the United States Federal Budget. Franz co-authors an annual Federal Budget Crunchers list, along with associate professor George Spagna, Ph.D., which is designed to help the general public put the size of the anticipated federal spending plan in perspective.
"Randolph-Macon College is all about making a difference in the lives of the young men and women who come here to learn,” said Franz. “I am looking forward to this new challenge to make a difference in the life of the College."
Franz earned a B.S. in physics and mathematics from Muhlenberg College and a Master’s and Ph.D. in physics from the University of Delaware. His research interests include instrumentation, alternate energy sources, the physics of education and the physics of sports.
Franz’s appointment as interim provost will officially begin in late August. He will hold the position for a minimum of two years until a permanent provost is appointed. Franz replaces William Johnston, Ph.D., who leaves the office on August 21, 2009 to become a tenured, full professor of mathematics at R-MC and a special assistant to Lindgren. Johnston accepted the position of provost in July 2007 and was successful in helping the College achieve SACS reaffirmation. He is recognized for having made a considerable impact on student retention and has offered critical academic perspective to the College’s master and strategic planning processes.
Franz’s wife, Patty, is a supervising librarian at the Pamunkey Regional Library. They have two children, Matt and Lizzie.
For more information, please contact Pam Harris Cox at 752-3712, pamelacox@rmc.edu or Anne Marie Lauranzon at 804-752-7317, alauranz@rmc.edu.