Dennis C. Jacobs

Dennis C. Jacobs is Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs at Fordham University, where he serves as the chief academic officer overseeing the university’s nine undergraduate, graduate, and professional schools. He joined Fordham in July 2019, bringing extensive experience in academic leadership and chemistry education.

His educational background includes:

• Ph.D. in Chemistry, Stanford University
• Bachelor's degrees in Chemistry and Physics, University of California at Irvine

Dr. Jacobs has held significant academic and administrative roles throughout his career. His research interests center on chemistry, particularly in physical chemistry and chemical education, with a strong emphasis on high-impact undergraduate research experiences and international engagement in science education.

Throughout his career, he has been recognized for excellence in teaching and academic leadership. His most notable honor includes being named U.S. Professor of the Year for Doctoral and Research Universities in 2002.

He has advised numerous students and contributed to major academic initiatives, especially in undergraduate and international studies. From 2004 to 2011, he served as Vice President and Associate Provost for Undergraduate and International Studies at the University of Notre Dame, and from 2011 to 2019, he was Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at Santa Clara University.

Dr. Jacobs has led various institutional teams focused on academic innovation, research advancement, and faculty development across Jesuit universities, contributing to the integration of teaching, research, and service in higher education.