Chris Bracey, the outgoing provost at the George Washington University, recently wrapped up his four-year tenure, reflecting on his time spent leading the institution through significant challenges and accomplishments.
Bracey concluded his term on June 30, having announced his resignation earlier that month. During his time as provost, he navigated the academic landscape as the university transitioned out of the COVID-19 pandemic, oversaw a period of change with three different university presidents, established a new strategic framework, and secured GW’s membership in the American Association of Universities.
In a statement to The Hatchet, Bracey expressed that the highlight of his tenure involved collaboration with faculty, students, and staff amidst a transformative period at the university.
“Serving as Provost was both an extraordinary privilege and a tremendous responsibility,” Bracey stated, emphasizing his efforts to advocate for academic excellence and the university’s priorities while supporting faculty and students.
Proud of his achievements, Bracey highlighted the hiring of several academic deans, the creation of new leadership roles within the Division for Student Affairs and information technology, and the recruitment of academically and culturally diverse student classes.
He was named interim provost in June 2021 following the departure of former Provost Brian Blake and was permanently appointed to the role in February 2022. Prior to his provost position, Bracey had served as vice provost for faculty affairs under Blake.
As of July 1, John Lach, the former Dean of the School of Engineering & Applied Science, succeeded Bracey as interim provost.
While Bracey chose not to discuss the factors leading to his resignation, he did mention that the theme of shared governance was significant throughout his tenure. In 2022, the principles of shared governance were approved by both the Faculty Senate and Board of Trustees, which Bracey viewed as an important milestone during his time in office.
He co-chaired the committee responsible for establishing these principles, designed to increase faculty involvement in certain university decision-making processes.
Bracey noted, “Collaborating with faculty, trustees, and senior administrators across the university, I saw first-hand engagement through councils, forums, and committees underscored by dedication to transparency and mutual respect across many projects and initiatives.”
Despite these efforts, faculty members have voiced concerns about a perceived lack of transparency, communication, and input on pivotal decisions. Issues such as the decision to arm the GW Police Department, handling of the pro-Palestinian encampment, and the financial troubles faced by the Medical Faculty Associates sparked criticism directed at Bracey and his administration.
At a Faculty Senate meeting in May, Bracey faced contention from several faculty members regarding the newly implemented procedures for integrating community feedback into university policies. Critics argued that these procedures violated established shared governance principles. Bracey acknowledged a “disagreement” regarding the interpretation of shared governance.
He recognized that several difficult decisions and key events defined his time at the university, particularly referencing the Diversity Program Review and the pro-Palestinian encampment as significant undertakings. Although he received criticism from some community members that the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) action plan fell short, Bracey expressed gratitude for the foundational changes that were achieved.
“Still, I remain optimistic and encouraged by the meaningful foundation the university has laid through new data tools, unit-level planning, and stronger accountability structures,” he said, acknowledging ongoing national pressures surrounding DEI initiatives.
Bracey described the pro-Palestinian encampment as a defining experience, recognizing the palpable emotions and tensions that permeated the university environment during that period. However, he opted not to comment on aspects of the university’s response that he believed were effective or whether he would have approached things differently.
He stressed the importance of maintaining a commitment to engaging in constructive debates and respectful discussions around sensitive issues, adhering to university policies as part of the institution’s mission.
Bracey notably became the highest-ranking official to visit the encampment on multiple occasions, interacting directly with demonstrators. The Student Coalition for Palestine at GWU accused Bracey of “violently assaulting” students after a video release showed him appearing to seize the phone of a student recording him at the event.
Additionally, pro-Palestinian protesters allegedly targeted Bracey’s property last August, spray-painting messages to advocate for divestment.
Looking ahead, Bracey expressed excitement about returning to his roots as a scholar, planning to engage with students in the classroom as a member of the GW Law faculty following a yearlong sabbatical. His final months included exploring the possibility of adopting a policy of institutional neutrality at the university.
“My commitment to GW remains strong, and I hope to contribute to the University in new ways moving forward,” he stated, signaling his enduring dedication despite stepping away from the provost position.
Responses from the university community regarding Bracey’s tenure reveal a mixed perception. Faculty and student leaders acknowledged his efforts toward transparency and advocacy but noted that he could have benefitted from more engagement with students.
Ethan Lynne, President of the Student Government Association, indicated that the provost’s office fell short in connecting with the student body, with many students expressing not seeing Bracey at events or engaging with them directly.
By contrast, he praised John Lach’s responsiveness, highlighting the promptness of his replies.
Faculty Senator and Executive Committee Member John Warren celebrated Bracey’s integrity and support for the university’s initiatives, including the College of Professional Studies’ publishing program, which he oversees.
Warren noted that both Bracey and University President Ellen Granberg had made progress towards improved transparency compared to previous administrations.
However, he echoed sentiments that further efforts in communication and collaborative governance are needed for GW to thrive amid ongoing challenges.
Guillermo Orti, a faculty senator, expressed surprise at Bracey’s decision to resign and expressed confidence in Lach’s ability to successfully fill the interim provost role, but refrained from elaborating further.
As Chris Bracey concludes his time as provost at GW University, his tenure will be remembered for its challenges, achievements, and the ongoing dialogue about shared governance and community engagement.
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