University News

Kishor Kapale, Ph.D., has been appointed Assistant Vice President for Graduate, Online and Outreach Programs.
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Jessica Lin, Ph.D., has been appointed Associate Provost for Academic Personnel and Budget.
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Lori Baker-Sperry, Ph.D., has been appointed Associate Provost for Undergraduate Programs.
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WIU Announces Completion of Provost’s Staff Appointments

December 1, 2025

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MACOMB/MOLINE, IL — Western Illinois University is pleased to announce that all positions within the Provost's Office have now been filled.

Lori Baker-Sperry, Ph.D., has been appointed Associate Provost for Undergraduate Programs. Baker-Sperry began her career at WIU in 1999 as an assistant professor in Women's Studies. She was promoted to associate professor in 2006 and to professor of Women's Studies in 2012. She later served as interim director of the Women's Center beginning in 2016 and became a professor of Liberal Arts and Sciences in 2017. Since 2023, she has served as a professor in Race, Religion, Gender and Multidisciplinary Studies.

"Dr. Baker-Sperry brings years of experience to this position. She has already hit the ground running. We're so excited to have her on the team," WIU Provost Mark Mossman said.

Jessica Lin, Ph.D., has been appointed Associate Provost for Academic Personnel and Budget. Lin began at WIU in August 2009 as an adjunct instructor in Economics and Decision Sciences (DS). She became an assistant professor in 2010 and was promoted to associate professor in 2016.

She served as department chair of the School of Accounting, Finance, Economics and Decision Sciences (AFEDS) beginning in 2020, followed by service as interim director of AFEDS in 2021. Most recently, she served as interim associate dean of the College of Business and Technology in 2025.

"Dr. Lin's intelligence and skill set are remarkable and she will be a great addition to the Provost's Office. Without a doubt, she will make significant contributions to Academic Affairs in this new role," Mossman said.

Kishor Kapale, Ph.D., has been appointed Assistant Vice President for Graduate, Online and Outreach Programs. Kapale joined WIU in July 2007 as an assistant professor of Physics. He was promoted to associate professor in 2011 and to professor in 2016. He served as interim chair of the Department of Physics in 2019 and became chair in 2020. From January to May 2024, he served as associate provost for Graduate and Undergraduate Studies, before returning to his role as department chair in June 2024.

"Dr. Kapale brings to the table a wealth of experience in both graduate studies and outreach activities. He's a great colleague and is a great addition to the office," Mossman said.

The University extends its appreciation to the search committees, the Faculty Senate, COAP and all faculty and staff who attended open meetings and contributed to the successful completion of these searches.

"We are grateful for the thoughtful engagement and collaboration across campus throughout this process," Mossman said.

Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
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