Gregory D. Pillar, Ph.D
innovative Higher Education Leader – Academic Operations Specialist – Lifelong Learning & Growth Mindset Advocate – Environmental Chemist
Qualifications & Experience
INNOVATIVE, DATA INFORMED & STUDENT-CENTERED ACADEMIC LEADER with extensive experience in higher education administration, instruction, program and curriculum design, accreditation, faculty development, student services, university programs, and crisis management. Background includes proven & effective strategic leadership in university operations and major university initiatives including reaffirmation of accreditation, transition to Division I athletics, and establishing offices focused on embedding community engagement in the curriculum and programs for high achieving students. Experience shows progressive and increased responsibility in academic administration. Leadership style is collaborative, inclusive, hybrid (active & passive) and transformational. Founded on integrity, open & direct communication, and strong interpersonal savvy with a desire to foster individual growth and motivate effective teams to have an enduring impact on campus and in the community.
Areas of Focus in University Leadership and Service
Over 16 years of progressive experience, focus and leadership in higher education administration by serving on steering committees, as faculty fellow/associate, department chair, program director, interim library director, interim dean, and assistant/associate provost. Through these experiences I have developed expertise, insight, and skills within the following areas of leadership and service in higher education.
University Operations & Financial Management
Enrollment, Retention & Student Success
Curriculum Development, Assessment & Oversight
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
Faculty Affairs
Strategic Initiatives
Professional Experience - Leadership & Faculty Positions
Current:
Associate Provost for Academic Affairs
Interim Director, Pulliam Center for International Education
Professor of Environmental Science & Chemistry
Previous:
Assistant Provost for University Programs
Interim Dean, McColl School of Business
Interim Director Everett Library
Director Preyer Honors Program
Department Chair Dept. of Environmental Science & Chemistry
Department Chair Dept. of Environmental Science
William S. Lee Professorship &
Associate Professor of Environmental Science and Chemistry (tenured)
Assistant Professor of Environmental Science and Chemistry
Members of the 2022-2023 Cohort in the Senior Leadership Academy (SLA) sponsored by the American Academic Leadership Institute (AALI), Council of Independent Colleges (CIC), and Academic Search.
Doctor of Philosophy
University of Georgia
Agronomy (Environmental Chemistry)
Master of Science
University of Georgia
Agronomy (Environmental Chemistry)
Bachelor of Science
University of Minnesota Environmental Science (Soil Science)
Certificate
Cornell University
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
Student Quotes
“He teaches with
incredible passion and his
lectures are always
captivating”
“He uses real-world
examples to
demonstrate the utility of
our education”
“Dr. Pillar exemplifies everything that is genuine about being an educator. His sense of appreciation for his field, respect for his students and passion for teaching are what make him truly one of a kind.”
“He connected with students very well and established close
relationships with each of us. Dr. Pillar expected the best
work possible from me and kept me motivated throughout
the semester.”
“(His honors course) was one of the most interesting and thought-provoking courses I took”
Disciplinary areas of expertise
Chemistry
Analytical Chemistry, Soil and Water Chemistry,
Environmental Chemistry, Soil and Plant Analysis, Organic Contaminant Hydrogeology, Advanced Chemical Instrumentation
Environmental Science
Soil Science, Geology, Agricultural Sciences, Global Food Security, Hydrology, Geomorphology, Geospatial Sciences, Mineralogy, Research Methods
Higher Education
General Education, Academic Honors Curriculum, Student Success Services, Adult and Continuing Education, Higher Education Leadership, Academic Operations, Faculty Development, Administration, Higher Education Policy
International/Global Education and Perspectives
Costa Rice, Italy, Vietnam, Micronesia