Dr. Kenneth Reaves Named Campus Provost at Webber International University

Webber International University recently appointed Dr. Kenneth Reaves as the new Campus Provost, who will also serve as the campus president. Dr. Reaves brings over two decades of experience in higher education and a wealth of knowledge to the institution.

"We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Ken Reaves to the Webber family," said Webber President/CEO Dr. Nelson Marquez. "His vast experience and commitment to excellence will undoubtedly contribute to our mission of providing a transformative educational experience to our students."

Prior to joining Webber International University, Dr. Reaves held various leadership positions in higher education institutions across Polk County. With experience ranging from registrar to SACSCOC liaison, he has consistently championed student success, enrollment management, budget planning, and the development of new academic programs.

"I am excited to be here and humbled by my selection." Dr. Reaves stated, adding that "Webber International University has a rich history of serving and equipping students for the future. I want to help lead Webber in writing a new chapter in that history."

In his role, Dr. Reaves is expected to spearhead initiatives to enhance campus efficiency and streamline organizational structures, aligning departments to optimize performance. In addition, he is tasked with ensuring that the University President's dictum, "The Webber Way: We Make Things Happen Here," gets to be positively operationalized. His arrival marks an exciting time as Webber prepares for its 10th-year SACSCOC reaffirmation scheduled for spring 2026.

About Webber International University

Established in 1927 by Roger Babson as the first college chartered under Florida's then new charitable and educational laws, Webber International University is a private, not-for-profit, independent institution offering degrees at the associate's, bachelor's, and master's levels.

Founded as America's second school of business for women, the university boasts highly qualified faculty, engaged staff, small class sizes, and a diverse range of intercollegiate sports and extracurricular activities. Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, the institution offers numerous programs through traditional day and entirely online formats.

Webber International University has received recognition as a US News and World Reports Best Regional Colleges: South and a Princeton Review Best Southeastern College. It has earned top marks from Petersons for academics, value, and community, and has been designated a Military Friendly School.

In 2011, St. Andrews University, a historically Presbyterian, comprehensive liberal arts school tracing its roots back to 1896, joined Webber as a branch campus.