Performing a bit of a dance and shuffle, Eastern University’s administration anticipates positive results from the new roles various members of EU’s leadership are stepping into. Former Provost, Chris Hall, will be stepping into the newly created position of Chancellor.
Taking over Dr. Hall’s position as Provost is Dr. David King, former executive dean of the Campolo College of Graduate and Professional Studies. Senior Vice President Tom Ridington will be the university’s Chief Marketing Officer. Rick Eisenstaedt is taking a great deal of Black’s workload, by assuming the roles of General Counsel, Chief Human Resources Officer and professor of business law.
While President Black’s title will not be changing, Black is now free to fulfill other duties. However, Black is quick to point out that Hall’s appointment is not solely intended to give him more freedom, but rather a reflection of Hall’s abilities.
The appointment was made so that, “Eastern can be led wisely and well by an academic leader,” Black said. “Dr. Hall will be the new public face of Eastern University.”
Hall describes his new position as one akin to the mayor of a city. Not only will he be managing the day-to-day affairs of the university, but he also will be representing the university all over the nation, including a visit to Cambridge University in September. Hall was also asked to speak on student formation, a passion of his, at Wheaton College this fall.
“Students long to be more deeply shaped and formed in the image of Christ,” Hall said. “We want to be known for our students’ spiritual formation.”
Black describes his current role in a similar way.
“Just as students need to be formed, so does the university,” Black said. “However, right now we have more people coming to our table than we have settings for.”
Mikaela Brown 
Sophia Hunter 
Jayme Fisher