TESU Appoints Harmon as New Provost

University advances strategic growth and academic innovation with experienced leader at pivotal moment for TESU and New Jersey workforce partnerships

Thomas Edison State University (TESU) has announced the appointment of Dr. Jeff S. Harmon as provost, succeeding Dr. Cynthia Baum, who will retire following years of distinguished service to the University. Harmon currently serves as vice provost for Strategic Initiatives and Institutional Effectiveness.

The appointment comes after a national search and at a pivotal time for TESU as the University continues to build momentum through sustained enrollment growth and an expanding statewide presence and impact.

“Dr. Harmon has demonstrated an exceptional ability to connect academic programming and innovation with workforce and student success initiatives to directly advance the mission of the University,” said Merodie A. Hancock, president. “As TESU continues to grow and meet the dynamic needs of our students, his experience and leadership will be essential in ensuring we embrace the changing workforce, maintain academic excellence and deepen our engagement across the state and beyond.”

Since joining TESU in 2017, Harmon has provided leadership across several critical areas of the University, including accreditation, academic partnerships, Credit for Prior Learning, learning assessment and program review. He also served as the interim dean of the Heavin School of Social Sciences, Humanities, and Education for the 2024–2026 academic years. His work has been especially impactful in cultivating partnerships that support innovation, workforce alignment and TESU’s broader strategic goals focused on growth, impact and student success.

Among his most notable initiatives, Harmon has led TESU’s collaboration with the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development on the statewide Apprenticeship Degree Initiative, a first-of-its-kind three-year, $5 million effort designed to connect workforce training with college degrees and expand educational opportunities for apprentices across New Jersey.

“I am honored to serve as provost at such an important moment in TESU’s history,” said Harmon. “I look forward to continuing our work to strengthen academic quality, expand partnerships and create new opportunities that support student achievement and the evolving needs of New Jersey’s workforce.”

Harmon will continue to lead the University through a period of academic innovation and institutional advancement begun with Baum. TESU officials expressed appreciation for the outgoing provost’s years of service and lasting contributions to the University community.