Dr. Laura C. Hartley joined Avila University as Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs in June 2026. She brings more than 25 years of higher education leadership experience, with a strong focus on strategic planning, academic operations, and student success. Most recently, she served at the University of La Verne as Interim Provost & Vice President of Academic Affairs and Senior Executive Advisor in the Office of the President.
Previously, Dr. Hartley was Provost and Chief Academic Officer at Seattle Pacific University, where she oversaw academic affairs, student affairs, inclusive excellence, and university ministries. She also held academic leadership roles at George Fox University (OR), Eastern University (PA), and Lesley University (MA), and has also taught at both the undergraduate and graduate levels throughout her administrative career.
Dr. Hartley holds a Ph.D. and a M.A. in Linguistics (with an emphasis in sociolinguistics) from Michigan State University, as well as a B.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies from Wheaton College (IL). She is widely recognized as a collaborative, relational leader committed to creating hospitable spaces where people can thrive.
Dr. Hartley lives in the Brookside neighborhood of Kansas City with her husband Dr. Benjamin Hartley. They have two adult children.