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April 22, 2025

Thomas College taps STEM expert as its next provost

By Renee Cordes
Jeremy Qualls of Thomas College
Photo / Courtesy of Thomas College
Jeremy Qualls

Following a national search, Thomas College has named Jeremy Qualls of the University of Southern Maine to serve as the Waterville school’s next provost or chief academic officer. 

Qualls, a professor at USM in the physics and engineering departments, where he also served as dean and vice president of research and innovation, is set to start his new role at Thomas College in July.

He will succeed Thomas Edwards, who recently retired after 25 years in the role.

Before joining USM in July 2018, Qualls served as director of academic resources and planning at Sonoma State University in California.  He is known nationally for his work in science, technology, engineering and math research, faculty support and building interdisciplinary programs.

“I am genuinely excited about the opportunities ahead, particularly as we look to grow and expand our academic offerings, including in high-impact areas like STEM, all while honoring our strong foundation in the liberal arts,” Qualls said.

“In a world that is evolving faster than ever, the ability to think critically, communicate effectively and lead with empathy is more important than ever,” he added. “Together, we will continue to empower our students—not just to build careers, but to lead lives of purpose, resilience, and impact.”

Jeannine Diddle Uzzi, president of Thomas College, commended Qualls for having a “rare combination of deep academic experience, innovative thinking and creative leadership.

“He is always envisioning the future of higher education, and he will ensure that Thomas graduates are prepared to meet the many challenges of the coming decades,” she added.

Qualls earned his Ph.D. and M.S. in physics from Florida State University and his B.S. in physics from East Tennessee State University.

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