Timothy G. Laurent, EdD, was recently named as Mercy Health Sciences University’ provost and vice president of academic affairs. Laurent was selected following an extensive national search led by Hyatt-Fennell Executive Search, a higher education-focused search firm that specializes in executive staffing. In this role, Laurent will oversee Mercy Health Sciences University’s academic affairs in collaboration with academic leaders and faculty to develop cooperative partnerships with healthcare affiliates and ensure positive outcomes for student retention, graduation, and licensure passage.

“I’m thrilled to join Mercy Health Sciences University in this role,” Laurent stated. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to utilize my experience in higher education administration to further the mission of such a prestigious Catholic college. I look forward to meeting our students and collaborating with our dedicated campus community.”

Before joining Mercy Health Sciences University, Laurent served most recently as senior officer for external academic support at Mount Mercy University in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, where he also performed duties as provost and vice president of academic affairs, and as interim president. Prior to these roles, Laurent served as vice president for academic affairs at the University of Providence in Montana and the associate dean of academic affairs at the University of Lynchburg in Virginia. In total, Laurent has served in higher education administrator roles for over 20 years, with many of those appointments directly related to academic affairs and program development.

“I am confident that Dr. Laurent will make an excellent addition to the Mercy Health Sciences University team,” Mercy Health Sciences University President Adreain Henry, OD, EdD, said. “Dr. Laurent’s extensive experience at nonprofit, private, and faith-based institutions has prepared him to serve as the chief academic officer at Mercy Health Sciences University. We look forward to furthering our mission, vision, and values as we expand and develop new programs with Dr. Laurent.”

Laurent earned a Doctor of Education in education administration from Ball State University in Indiana and holds a Master of Science in athletic training from the University of Arizona. In addition to his role as vice president and provost, Laurent will serve alongside other Mercy Health Sciences University administrators on the President’s Cabinet. Laurent began his role on May 1, 2023.

About Mercy Health Sciences University

Mercy Health Sciences University is a health sciences specialty school rooted in the Catholic heritage of the Sisters of Mercy. Located in the heart of downtown Des Moines, Iowa, Mercy Health Sciences University offers master’s, bachelor’s, and associate degrees, certificates, and continuing education courses. Through our unique hands-on learning, unparalleled clinical rotations, and accelerated education offerings, our students are prepared to enter the workforce quickly with the critical skills necessary to make an immediate impact in their chosen healthcare careers. Guided by our Core Values of Knowledge, Reverence, Integrity, Compassion, and Excellence, Mercy Health Sciences University has been transforming students into successful healthcare professionals for over 120 years.