Rose-Hulman announced it has hired a new provost and vice president for academic affairs. Alumnus Rick Stamper, a professor of mechanical engineering and engineering management, will step into the position July 1.

During his 20 years as a member of the Rose-Hulman faculty, Stamper – a 1985 mechanical engineering graduate – has served as head of the engineering management department, the interim associate dean for professional development responsible for Rose-Hulman Ventures, the dean of the faculty, and the interim vice president of academic affairs. Prior to entering the classroom, Stamper gained extensive industry experience after earning his master’s degree in mechanical engineering from Purdue University and his Ph.D. in mechanical engineering from University of Maryland. He holds two patents for an adaptive halo orthosis device he developed.

As the Rose-Hulman chief academic officer, the Provost and VPAA is responsible for academic strategy development as well as representing the academic face of the institution externally. 

"Over the years Rick has formed deep connections with our alumni and friends and has been successful in helping Rose-Hulman develop key external relationships," said president Robert A. Coons. "Rick is genuinely committed to the culture and mission at Rose-Hulman and brings dedication, experience and a depth of understanding of our current state that can successfully help walk us through the coming years.

Stamper replaces Anne Houtman, who is taking over as president of Earlham College. 

Stamper was recognized in 2004 as the Board of Trustees Outstanding Scholar; was named the Dean's Outstanding Teacher in 2006; and was recognized in 2012 as one of America's "Best 300 Professors" by The Princeton Review.

"I feel fortunate to be surrounded by such talented colleagues," Stamper said. "I look forward to serving the institute as we work together to provide our students with the world's best undergraduate science, engineering, and mathematics education in an environment of individual attention and support."