Dr. Yvonne Moore Coston has been named provost and vice president of Academic Affairs. Dr. Coston joined the faculty at Saint Augustine’s University as an assistant professor in the Department of Mathematics. After earning her terminal degree in mathematics education and completing teaching, research, and service responsibilities, Dr. Coston moved through the faculty ranks to become a full professor with tenure in the Departments of Mathematics and Education. Prior to this new appointment, Dr. Coston was the vice president of Research and Innovation.

“Dr. Coston brings a full range of academic experience to the position as a tenured professor, researcher and administrator,” Interim President Everett B. Ward, Ph.D. said. “I have the fullest confidence in her academic integrity, commitment to quality teaching and her experience in working with accrediting organizations. At this critical juncture in the life of Saint Augustine’s University, having a seasoned and respected member of the academy lead our academic efforts is essential to the future of this institution.”

Dr. Coston has served in various roles throughout her tenure at Saint Augustine’s University. She previously successfully served as the chief academic officer and vice president for Academic Affairs while the institution was reviewed off-site and on-site by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Prior to that position, she served as the dean of the School of Liberal Arts and Education for five years and led the Teacher Education Program through accreditation with the National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) and the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction. She has also served as acting dean of the School of Sciences, Engineering and Mathematics and chair of the Department of Mathematics.

Dr. Coston holds a Ph.D. from North Carolina State University in mathematics education. A M.S. degree from North Carolina State University in statistics, a M.Ed. from North Carolina State University in mathematics education and a B.S. degree from Fayetteville State University in mathematics.

While employed at Saint Augustine’s University, some of Dr. Coston’s proudest accomplishments include the implementation of international engagement across disciplines; generating funds for and taking students and faculty groups to Egypt and China; participating in a subcontract to write and disseminate 750,000 elementary school teaching and learning products to children in Benin, Africa; spearheading collaboration with Hanban in Beijing, China to implement the Saint Augustine’s University Confucius Classroom which allows for the offering of Chinese language and culture on campus.

“I am excited about serving in the role as provost/vice president for Academic Affairs at this critical juncture in the history at Saint Augustine’s University,” Coston said. “I look forward to working with President Ward as we chart a new course for the institution.”