Dr. Ruth Provost of Walnut Ridge has been named as Williams Baptist College’s new psychology department chair.  

Provost, who is a 1998 Williams alum, has taught at the college since 2004, and she has already assumed her new role as department chair.

“I am honored and excited about becoming the department chair,” said Provost.  “I am looking forward to this opportunity and challenge, and I can’t wait to see what the future brings the department and the college.”

“Dr. Provost has been an outstanding instructor in the psychology department for over 10 years,” added Dr. Brad Baine, WBC’s vice president for academic affairs.  “Along with teaching and leadership skills, Dr. Provost consistently maintains a positive disposition.  I have complete confidence she will lead the faculty of the psychology department as they prepare our graduates to engage local and global cultures through a Christ-centered worldview.”

After earning her bachelor’s degree from WBC, Provost went on to receive both her master’s degree and Psy.D. from Wheaton College.  She is also a member of the Southwest Psychological Association (SWPA), and has served as Arkansas state representative for the group, as well as being a member of the American Psychological Association.

Provost takes over the helm of the department from Dr. Paul Rhoads, who served as the chair for many years.  Rhoads will remain a member of the Williams faculty, as he plans to continue teaching psychology courses at WBC.

“I am so grateful that Dr. Rhoads is supportive and willing to be a resource during this time of transition. Dr. Rhoads was an amazing department chair and is a wonderful mentor, and I am grateful for his recommendation and faith in me,” noted Provost.

“I know our students view Dr. Provost as someone who is always willing to offer extra help when needed.  She is an excellent example of the high quality faculty found at Williams Baptist College,” concluded Baine.

Williams is a four-year, liberal arts college at Walnut Ridge.