Experienced academic leader becomes UNTHSC’s senior vice president and provost
Christopher Ray, PhD, on Wednesday was named the new senior vice president and provost at The University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth.
Ray, who had served as acting provost since February, was hired in 2023 as UNTHSC’ deputy provost. Ray succeeds Charles Taylor, PharmD, who is a full-time, tenured faculty member in the UNTHSC College of Pharmacy.
In his new role as provost, Ray is the university’s chief academic officer, responsible for overseeing all academic programs, faculty affairs and student success initiatives. Reporting to the president, the provost guides curriculum, development, supports research, manages academic budgets and ensures UNTHSC meets accreditation standards. He will manage and support all academic colleges, departments and programs to ensure the delivery of high-quality education, research and service.
“I am incredibly honored to step into this role and continue serving an institution I deeply admire,” Ray said. “At UNTHSC, we have a unique opportunity to shape the future of health care through innovation, collaboration and a commitment to excellence in education and research. I look forward to working alongside our outstanding faculty, staff and students to drive meaningful impact in the communities we serve.”
Interim President Kirk Calhoun, MD, FACP, praised Ray’s leadership and vision.
“Dr. Ray brings an exceptional blend of experience and integrity, plus a deep understanding of our mission,” Calhoun said. “His leadership has already made a significant difference at UNTHSC, and I am confident that he will continue to advance our academic and research excellence as provost. He is the right leader at the right time.”
Before joining UNTHSC, Ray served from 2016 to 2023 as dean of the College of Health Sciences at Texas Woman’s University. He led the top-ranked School of Occupational Therapy in Texas and helped secure $100 million in legislative funding for a new health sciences building set to open in fall 2025. Ray also secured more than $1.9 million in funding for geriatric health research and launched innovative programs in occupational therapy, nutrition and public health.
Ray holds a doctorate in movement studies from the University of Georgia, in addition to a master’s in human performance and sport studies, and a bachelor’s in exercise science, both from the University of Tennessee. He is an alumnus of the Texas Governor’s Executive Development Program and has received multiple teaching award nominations.
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