HUNTINGTON, W.Va. — Marshall University has selected a new senior vice president and provost.
Dr. Diane Helfers Petrella was chosen following a nationwide search, Marshall announced Friday. She’ll begin at Marshall on July 1, 2026.
“Throughout her career, Dr. Petrella has demonstrated a strong commitment to academic excellence, student success and the arts as a vehicle for innovation and community engagement,” said Marshall President Brad Smith. “Her leadership experience and collaborative spirit will be instrumental as Marshall continues to advance our academic mission and elevate our impact across the region and beyond.”
Petrella comes to Marshall from Kent State University where she’s been dean of the College of the Arts since 2021. She said she’s excited about coming to Marshall.
“As a first-generation college graduate and lifelong advocate for public access to higher education, I look forward to working together to expand opportunity, elevate student success and strengthen Marshall’s role as a catalyst for transformation in our communities,” she said.
Dr. Robert Bookwalter will continue serving as Marshall’s interim provost, the university said.