Drury fills top academic post

Drury University appointed its next vice president for academic affairs.

Steven Combs will take the top academic post at the school Jan. 26. He succeeds Charles Taylor, who will return to teaching communication and rhetoric classes next fall after a spring sabbatical, according to a news release.

“Combs has accumulated a breadth of academic experience that is complemented by a depth of knowledge and implementation achievements,” Drury President David Manuel said in the release. “I am particularly pleased that he fully grasps and believes in the mission of Drury University, and he will be a great asset to help Drury integrate the liberal arts and professional studies in the 21st century.”

Combs comes to Drury from Edinboro University of Pennsylvania, where he’s served the past year as founding dean of the college of arts, humanities and social sciences. He worked 2006-13 at Hawaii Pacific University, serving as dean of its college of communications and later as founding dean of its college of humanities and social services. In the latter role, he oversaw a 20 percent enrollment increase 2009-11 and also was known for helping secure over $2.7 million in grants.

“My approach to leadership focuses on people and the organizational culture. We all have differing gifts,” Combs said in the release. “I hope to work with the faculty and administrative staff to bring forth their unique talents in ways that make them excited to come to campus every day.”