Ball State University issued the following announcement on Oct. 31.

Dr. Susana Rivera-Mills, Ball State University’s provost and executive vice president for academic affairs, has been named a 2019 Woman of Influence by the Indianapolis Business Journal. Each year, IBJ recognizes a select group of women who have demonstrated professional excellence and leadership in their careers and community service.

“Susana embodies our University’s enduring values — excellence, integrity, social responsibility, inclusiveness, gratitude, innovation, and courage,” said Ball State President Geoffrey S. Mearns, “and she is committed to a campus culture where every student is empowered to succeed.

“I am grateful that IBJ has honored her. In just a little over a year serving as our provost, she has had a significant, positive impact on our University.”

Since her arrival at Ball State in July 2018, Provost Rivera-Mills has been instrumental in the development of the University’s strategic plan and new budget model. In addition, she and interim Vice President for Student Affairs Ro-Anne Royer Engle are leading efforts to improve the University’s retention rates, and she leads the Ball State and Muncie Community Schools Joint Academic Innovation Council, part of a community-wide effort to transform the local school district into a national model.

“It is truly an honor to serve Ball State,” Provost Rivera-Mills said. “Students, alumni, and friends of the University have welcomed me, and more importantly, shared with me their pride in our University and their gratitude for what we accomplish. I am grateful to our faculty and staff for their input and hard work, and I am proud to serve a university deeply committed to transforming lives through education.

“Our beautiful campus, welcoming culture, outstanding professors, and focus on innovation and collaboration provide the perfect place for students to continue their lifelong journey to fulfilling careers and meaningful lives. I am confident that together we will continue to build upon our great work as we collectively create our bright future at Ball State University.”

Original source can be found here.