Denham named associate provost, dean of UA Graduate School

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. - The University of Alabama has named Dr. André Denham as its next associate provost and dean of the Graduate School following a national search. He will begin his appointment July 1.

Dr. Denham currently serves as the associate dean for graduate academic affairs, leading campuswide efforts in creating new graduate programs, accreditation, and student and professional development, among other duties. He is also a professor of instructional technology in the College of Education.

"Dr. Denham brings exceptional leadership and a deep commitment to graduate education," said Dr. Lesley Reid, UA provost. "His strategic vision and dedication to student success make him the right choice to guide the Graduate School into its next chapter."

As associate provost and dean of the Graduate School, Denham will lead a forward-looking vision for graduate education, with a focus on aligning doctoral programs with the needs of the state of Alabama and the nation. He will work with department, college and University leaders to develop new graduate programs, strengthen recruitment and funding, streamline admissions and student progress, and promote high standards for graduate student mentorship and success.

"Graduate education sits at the heart of this University's research, teaching and service mission," said Denham. "So, being tapped by Provost Reid to steward this unit is a profound honor. Additionally, I am very excited about the future of graduate education at UA, as there are many opportunities for us to further strengthen the fantastic work already underway."

As associate dean for graduate academic affairs, Denham helped lead strategy, budget stewardship, and implementation of new initiatives while overseeing the Graduate Registrar's office and graduate programming. He also provided leadership for graduate curriculum, assessment, accreditation and program approval processes, working closely with campus and state partners to support graduate education and student success.

Accomplishments during his tenure include leading major operational and programmatic improvements that streamlined Graduate School processes, expanding academic offerings, and strengthening communication across graduate programs. He also advanced graduate student success through the launch of the Crimson Odyssey mentorship and mentee training program, faculty development efforts, and the expansion of graduate student programming and co-curricular initiatives.

Denham earned his doctoral degree in educational technology from Arizona State University. He joined the UA faculty in 2012 as assistant professor of technology and climbed the ranks to full professorship last year. In addition to his administrative experience with the Graduate School, he served as graduate program coordinator for the College of Education's instruction technology program from 2018 to 2021, co-chair of the General Education Taskforce, and co-chair of the academic affairs committee of the Faculty Senate.

The Graduate School has seen continuous growth since 2022, with enrollment increasing each year and setting a record of more than 6,200 in fall 2025. Offering more than 150 master's and doctoral programs, the Graduate School's comprehensive program of graduate study embraces the humanities, sciences, education and multiple professional areas.