MOBILE, Ala. – Spring Hill College has named Michael Ferry, Ph.D., as its new vice president for academic affairs, recognizing his leadership, academic excellence and commitment to advancing the College’s mission of forming leaders of conscience who think critically, act justly and serve generously. In this role, Ferry will lead academic planning and support faculty, programs and initiatives that promote student success across the College.
Ferry served previously as the associate provost for academic affairs, and throughout his nearly
two-decade tenure at Spring Hill College, Ferry has helped guide several of the institution's most
significant academic initiatives. He played a key role in developing the College's Strategic Alliance with
Rockhurst University, expanding academic opportunities for students through new partnerships and
program pathways. Most recently, Spring Hill and Rockhurst announced an agreement establishing a
Speech-Language Pathology pathway for students interested in pursuing graduate study in the field.
"It is an honor to step into this role and continue working alongside our faculty, staff and leadership to
strengthen our academic programs, support student success and build on the strong foundation that has defined Spring Hill College for generations," Ferry said. “I have witnessed firsthand the impact of our mission on students, alumni and the broader community. ”
Ferry also oversees the College's Italy Center in Bologna, which provides semester and summer study
abroad opportunities for students enrolled at Spring Hill and other institutions across the country. He
serves as co-chair of the College's Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on
Colleges (SACSCOC) accreditation steering committee, helping guide the institution's comprehensive
self-study process ahead of its upcoming reaffirmation review.
“Dr. Ferry has consistently demonstrated thoughtful leadership and a deep commitment to Spring Hill’s
mission, ” said Dr. Mary Van Brunt, president of Spring Hill College. “Mike was instrumental on our
Strategic Alliance Committee, where he helped develop partnerships with other institutions to offer
students more educational opportunities that are accessible in Alabama and beyond.
”Ferry joined Spring Hill College in 2008 as a professor of philosophy and has built a distinguished career in both teaching and academic leadership. His scholarly work focuses on ethics, political philosophy and bioethics and he has authored numerous publications and presentations in these areas. He earned his bachelor's degree in philosophy from Saint Joseph’s University in Philadelphia and a doctoral degree in philosophy from Georgetown University in Washington, D.C.
ABOUT SPRING HILL COLLEGE
Founded in 1830, Spring Hill College is the oldest institution of higher learning in Alabama, the oldest Catholic college
in the Southeast and the third oldest Jesuit college in the United States. Spring Hill combines the Jesuit tradition ofexcellence in education and a commitment to caring for the whole person — mind, body and spirit — with innovative
educational experiences. Located in Mobile, Alabama, Spring Hill’s mission is to form leaders engaged in learning,
faith, justice and service for life. As a result, Spring Hill students are engaged, inspired and transformed by their
experiences. For more information, visit www.shc.edu.
