Politics professor Amy Gutmann replaces Ostriker as University provost

University politics professor Amy Gutmann assumed the position of provost this month after her appointment by President Tilghman and approval by the Board of Trustees in July.

"This a wonderful time in Princeton's history to serve," Gutmann said. "There are opportunities to make Princeton more accessible, innovative and excellent than ever."

She succeeds professor Jeremiah Ostriker who stepped down as provost to take a professorship at the University of Cambridge. Ostriker will continue his work as a professor of astronomy at the University.

"My goal was to appoint a provost who would bring exceptional credentials as a teacher and scholar, particularly in the humanities or social sciences," Tilghman said in a press release. "[Someone] who has demonstrated skills as a senior administrator and who would share my excitement about the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead for Princeton."

Gutmann made headlines last year during several presidential searches. She was considered a possible candidate during the University's search for a new president and was also approached by Harvard University during their search.

"I don't want to be a university president. The provost's office at Princeton is where I want to be," Gutmann said. "I decided to take the job because [President Tilghman] asked me. That made me consider the position more seriously."

Gutmann has served as a professor in the politics department for nearly 25 years and is the founding director of the University Center for Human Values.

She has also served in several administrative positions, including dean of the faculty from 1995-1997 and a member of the Priorities Committee.

"The provost is the University's top financial and academic officer," Gutmann said. "Princeton has many opportunities right now. We have a strong base, but we can't be complacent."

As the second-ranking officer of the University, the provost is responsible for the overall academic program, works closely with the faculty and provides general oversight for many of the University operations. The provost also chairs the Priorities Committee and makes recommendations for allocating financial resources.

Gutmann received a B.A. and a Ph.D. from Harvard University and a M.Sc. from the London School of Economics.

Her husband, University politics professor Michael W. Doyle, is on a public service sabbatical to serve as assistant secretary-general at the United Nations.