EUGENE–Karen Sprague, a University of Oregon professor of biology, will become the university’s new vice provost for undergraduate studies, a newly created position designed to advance excellence in undergraduate teaching. She will assume her new duties on July 1.

"This appointment underscores our commitment to offering the best possible undergraduate education," John Moseley, provost and academic vice president, said Friday (June 2). "Karen Sprague brings to this position not only an innovative, can-do approach to education, but terrific experience in teaching and research as leader of the undergraduate task force in our Process for Change project."

As vice provost for undergraduate studies, Sprague will work with groups across campus to promote excellence in undergraduate teaching, strengthen the connections between research and undergraduate education, and revise and improve general education requirements. In her new position, she will work with and be advised by the UO’s Undergraduate Council.

Sprague will oversee academic advising, multicultural affairs, student retention programs and the implementation of undergraduate programs developed through the Process for Change which brought together faculty, staff and students to address ways to create a new, more flexible and student-centered model of education at the University of Oregon.

Sprague, a molecular biologist on the UO faculty since 1977, earned her doctorate in biochemistry at Yale University. Teaching experience at all levels of the university has complemented her research into the control of gene expression in higher organisms.

As part of the Process for Change, Sprague took a lead role in developing new approaches to improving undergraduate education at the UO by directing the university’s Task Force on Undergraduate Education. The task force studied, recommended and is helping to implement a number of innovative programs, including building scholarship funds; increasing student opportunities for real-world experience through internships, research opportunities and community service projects; and bringing greater coherence to undergraduate studies through the creation of theme-centered pathways.

"My goal is to encourage and reward excellent educational effort," says Sprague. "I am inspired by the intellectual vigor of our campus, by the teaching ability of our research faculty, and by the imagination of our administrative staff. Putting all of these elements together will give UO undergraduates remarkable opportunities."

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