President Daniel J. Elsener | Marian University website

Marian University is pleased to announce the appointment of Binh Tran, Ph.D., as its new chief academic officer. This three-year appointment is effective July 1, 2024. Dr. Tran joined Marian University from The Catholic University of America (CUA) in Washington, D.C., where he has garnered recognition for his scholarship and research, teaching innovation, strategic vision, and leadership. As the founding dean of the E. S. Witchger School of Engineering at Marian University and previously as vice provost at The Catholic University of America, Dr. Tran brings a wealth of experience and expertise to this new role.

Kenith Britt, Ph.D., Marian's chancellor and chief operating officer, expressed enthusiasm about Dr. Tran's appointment, stating, "Dr. Binh Tran has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to academic innovation, student success, and our Catholic Franciscan identity. His leadership at the E. S. Witchger School of Engineering has been instrumental in successfully launching and growing our engineering programs. As chief academic officer, we are confident that he will contribute significantly to making Marian University a great Catholic university."

Dr. Tran himself expressed his excitement about the new role, stating, "I am honored by this opportunity to serve Marian University as its chief academic officer. I look forward to working collaboratively with the Board of Trustees, university leadership, deans, faculty, staff, and students to continue fostering an environment of academic excellence. I look forward to providing leadership as Marian University pivots onto a national stage and our reputation continues to grow. I remain committed to ensure that the E. S. Witchger School of Engineering achieves all of its goals including enrollment growth, fundraising support, academic quality, and accreditation."

The creation of the chief academic officer position underscores Marian University's commitment to advancing its strategic vision of access and success, STEHM, and faith in action. This position complements the existing leadership positions of president and chancellor. Alan Silva, Ph.D., will continue to serve as Provost through the end of the academic year, working with Dr. Tran to ensure a smooth leadership transition and develop priorities to position the university to exceed the strategic plan goals of Journey to 2030: Always Forward.

Marian University, Indy's only Catholic University, remains steadfast in its pursuit of excellence. The university is dedicated to providing students with a distinctive, rigorous academic experience that prepares them for transformational leadership in service to the world. Dr. Tran's appointment as chief academic officer reflects Marian's commitment to academic excellence and empowering students for leadership roles in building a better world.

With Dr. Tran's proven track record of fostering a dynamic and inclusive learning environment, his appointment as chief academic officer is expected to contribute significantly to Marian University's growth and reputation.