Communications
Welcome to the Communications archive for the Office of the Executive Vice President and Provost (EVPP) at the University of Minnesota. This page serves as a centralized resource, compiling all official messages sent from the EVPP to the University community, including faculty, staff, and students. Here, you can find a comprehensive history of communications on important academic and institutional matters, such as academic policies, leadership announcements, guidance for instructors, and updates on key issues affecting campus life and the classroom.
After five years of distinguished service as Dean of the School of Dentistry, one year as interim dean and service as associate dean for academic affairs, Dean Keith Mays has announced his decision to retire effective June 30, 2026.
New Student Convocation is one of the first moments when the incoming class of Gophers experience the University as a true academic community — and faculty presence is central to that experience.
Dr. Linda Nagel has agreed to serve as interim dean of the College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences and interim director of the Minnesota Agricultural Experiment Station, effective July 1, 2026 and until a permanent dean and director is appointed.
Instructure restored the Canvas platform yesterday evening around 10:00 p.m. after an investigation found no evidence that data was accessed or exfiltrated. The University has now restored local Canvas access to all campuses.
The development of the Twin Cities Strategic Plan is underway, and your insight is essential to ensuring that the plan is both ambitious and grounded in the lived experiences of our community. We invite you to reflect on how the recommendations support your work, your students and our shared future.
I am pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Elisia Cohen as vice provost for graduate and professional education and dean of the Graduate School, effective June 15, 2026, pending Board of Regents approval. Selected through a highly competitive internal search, Dr. Cohen brings distinguished experience in research leadership, interdisciplinary collaboration and community-engaged scholarship, along with a clear and compelling vision for the future of graduate and professional education at the University of Minnesota.
I am pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Carola Weil as our new vice provost for international affairs, effective August 24, 2026. Selected through a highly competitive national search, Dr. Weil brings distinguished experience in global education, strategic partnerships and cross-cultural leadership.
Archived Communications
message sent to all Twin Cities faculty and all instructors on August 29, 2024.
message sent to the Twin Cities Administrative Email list on May 31, 2023.
message sent to Twin Cities faculty and instructors on April 27, 2023.
I am writing to remind you about the potential need to provide accommodations for students observing religious holidays, per the Makeup Work for Legitimate Absences policy.