Paul E. Jensen, PhD, Named Nina Henderson Provost at Drexel

Following a national search, Paul E. Jensen, PhD, has been named Executive Vice President and Nina Henderson Provost at Drexel University.

Following a national search, Paul E. Jensen, PhD, has been named Executive Vice President and Nina Henderson Provost at Drexel University.

“As we prepare to return to campus in September, the provost will be integral to developing the complex logistics of a hybrid approach to learning and research that ensures high-quality educational, research and professional experiences for Drexel students,” said Drexel President John Fry. “In addition, the Provost’s Office under Paul will play an important role in our broad-based initiative to strengthen the University by creating an anti-racist community at Drexel that fosters safety, professional growth and well-being for Drexel’s Black students, faculty and professional staff.”

Jensen has served with distinction as interim provost since the fall, leading the academic affairs division of the University. Following the campus shutdown in March amid the coronavirus pandemic, he guided the University in successfully navigating daunting pedagogical challenges with the abrupt shift to remote teaching and exams. Jensen succeeds Brian Blake as Nina Henderson Provost, which was endowed in 2017 by Mary R. “Nina” Henderson ’72, vice chair of Drexel’s Board of Trustees.

“Congratulations‎ to Paul Jensen on his appointment as the Nina Henderson Provost of Drexel University,” Henderson said. “The trustees on the Academic Affairs Committee and I look forward to working with Paul as Drexel's academic offerings are re-envisioned for our evolving world.”

Prior to serving as interim provost, Jensen was the R. John Chapel, Jr., Dean of the LeBow College of Business. As dean, in addition to developing a new strategic plan for the College and leading two of LeBow’s most successful fundraising years, Jensen launched the Drexel Solutions Institute to expand interdisciplinary research and experiential learning opportunities by enhancing external partnerships. Jensen also has held leadership positions at the Goodwin College of Professional Studies and the Center for Hospitality and Sports Management.

Jensen joined the LeBow College economics faculty in 1997. His research is in the areas of international trade and industrial organization with a specific focus on the determinants of bilateral trade patterns and the welfare implication of various trade and industrial policies.

Jensen holds undergraduate degrees in the fields of economics and mechanical engineering from Syracuse University, and a doctorate in economics from Pennsylvania State University. Prior to his academic career, he worked as an engineer in the power generation division of General Electric.