University of Miami Appoints Joel Hassman Samuels as Provost

The University of Miami has announced the appointment of Joel Hassman Samuels as its new executive vice president for academic affairs and provost, effective August 11, 2024. Samuels, a scholar with over 20 years of experience in higher education, previously served as the dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at the University of South Carolina (USC), where he significantly enhanced the college’s research capabilities.

In his role at USC, Samuels oversaw an annual budget exceeding $450 million and achieved a remarkable increase in federal grant funding. Under his leadership, the college’s federal grants surged by more than 70 percent, surpassing $50 million in a single year for the first time in its history during the fiscal year 2024. This accomplishment highlights his ability to drive growth in research funding while also increasing both total grant submissions and awards.

Joseph Echevarria, president and CEO of the University of Miami, praised Samuels’ diverse background, stating, “The combination of Joel’s background as a tenured law professor, researcher, and administrator uniquely equips him to understand the challenges and opportunities across our schools and colleges.” Echevarria described Samuels as “a proven and dynamic leader,” adding that his experience will be invaluable in navigating the academic landscape.

Samuels’ tenure at USC also included securing a historic $75 million programmatic gift for the College of Arts and Sciences. This funding is earmarked to support innovation in teaching, recruit and retain exceptional faculty, and enhance student experiences, including internships and a growing neuroscience program launched under his leadership.

He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Politics from Princeton University, graduating magna cum laude, and earned a law degree from the University of Michigan, where he was a Clarence Darrow Scholar. Additionally, he served as the executive director of South Carolina’s Rule of Law Collaborative, overseeing over $27 million in federal grants, which positioned him as the top-funded social scientist at the institution.

Leadership Transition at the University of Miami

As Samuels steps into his new role, he succeeds Guillermo “Willy” Prado, who served as interim provost for the past two years. Echevarria commended Prado for his leadership, noting, “It is because of Willy’s leadership and dedication that we have not missed a beat throughout the interim period.” Under Prado’s guidance, the university advanced several critical initiatives, including the successful appointment of numerous deans and the establishment of the new Center for Academic Navigation and Success.

Prado will continue to contribute to the university as a valuable team member moving forward. Echevarria emphasized the importance of this transition as the university prepares to expand its academic and operational leadership.

Samuels’ appointment coincides with the establishment of a new role for chief scientific officer at the University of Miami. Echevarria stated that this decision reflects the university’s commitment to research and scientific innovation. He noted that dedicated leadership in this area will help the university distinguish itself on both national and global stages, particularly in STEM fields.

A Unique Background and Vision

In addition to his academic credentials, Samuels brings a unique perspective to his role, having previously coached a roller derby team. His leadership of the Columbia QuadSquad led the team to a No. 26 ranking out of more than 350 teams, a remarkable turnaround from its previous standings. “We took a small-town amateur team and competed with professional athletes from the world’s biggest cities,” Samuels recalled. “We did that as a team and as a family, and that is the culture I seek to infuse everywhere I work.”

As he prepares to lead the University of Miami into its next century, Samuels expressed his commitment to enhancing the institution’s impact through innovative research and exceptional educational experiences. He stated, “In the coming years, I look forward to working with partners across our campuses and in our community to expand our impact on and through our students.”

Samuels’ appointment marks a significant step for the University of Miami as it seeks to strengthen its academic leadership and elevate its position in higher education. His extensive experience and proven track record in research and administration are expected to drive positive changes and foster growth within the university’s academic enterprise.