Robert Burrus

The University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) has named Robert Burrus as provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs. 

According to a press release, the appointment followed a national search for a candidate, conducted with assistance from the UNC System Office. 

Burrus was appointed interim provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs in July 2025, following former provost James Winebrake’s appointment as president of Coastal Carolina University. Burrus will assume the permanent role on May 1. 

Burrus previously served as dean of UNCW’s Cameron School of Business, a position now filled by David Mautz, chair of UNCW’s Department of Accounting and Business Law, who is serving as interim dean.

UNCW will launch a national search to permanently fill the role in the coming weeks, according to a university spokesperson. 

“As UNCW approaches its 80th anniversary, we are experiencing extraordinary momentum, and Dr. Burrus will serve in a pivotal role, guiding our academic mission into the future,” said Chancellor Aswani Volety in the release. “From launching new programs to integrating technology-infused learning into even more academic experiences, Rob will be at the forefront of helping UNCW advance its mission while navigating complex challenges in higher education.”

The academic affairs division includes five academic colleges, seven functional areas, the Center for Marine Science and a divisional operations wing, with more than 1,300 faculty and staff members. The provost serves as the university’s “chief academic officer,” according to UNCW’s website, and collaborates with campus and community partners to advance UNCW’s regional and global impact. 

Burrus has been a member of the UNCW faculty since 1998, according to the press release, and served as dean of the Cameron School of Business for 10 years. Burrus has also held other leadership roles at UNCW, including serving as chair of the Department of Economics and Finance and as associate dean for undergraduate programs and assessment. 

According to the release, Burrus is originally from Kinston and holds a Ph.D. and M.A. in economics from the University of Virginia, as well as a B.S. from Wake Forest University. 

“UNCW’s strong academic foundation, its commitment to student success and its growing momentum make this an especially meaningful time to lead the Division of Academic Affairs,” Burrus said in the release. “I look forward to working with faculty, staff, students and community partners to advance academic excellence, expand opportunity and help shape a future where UNCW continues to thrive and make a lasting impact.”