Office of the Provost Directory

Dr. Dimitri Tamalis serves as the interim provost of the University of the Incarnate Word. In this role, he oversees UIW’s Academic Affairs division and is responsible for overseeing the quality and education associated with undergraduate, graduate and professional degrees. As Interim Provost, Dr. Tamalis works closely with academic leadership, deans, and faculty at UIW directing academic operations that span the University’s 150 degrees and programs for its more than 10,000 students.

Dr. Tamalis joined UIW in October 2023 as vice provost and brings with him more than 20 years of higher education experience serving in many capacities including instruction, grants administration, inter-agency collaboration and development, student success program development, and faculty mentorship. A seasoned researcher and scholar, Dr. Tamalis’ scholarship focused on the characterization of Naturally Occurring Radioactive Material (NORM) in Texas oil fields and municipal infrastructure while creating opportunities for underrepresented student populations to enter the field of nuclear science. Additionally, he has extensive experience as an academic leader developing strategic plans, implementing new academic programs and curricular innovation, and leading accreditation processes.

Prior to joining UIW Dr. Tamalis was as associate dean and professor in the College of Health and Human Development at California State University, Northridge. In this capacity he worked to close achievement gaps and increase retention and graduation rates, while fostering a culture of diversity and belonging.

Dr. Tamalis earned his undergraduate degree in Chemistry from McPherson College, his PhD in Biochemistry from Kansas State University and completed postdoctoral work at The New York University Medical Center and the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. He also worked for the University of Texas at Austin as a guest researcher and lecturer. Prior to his work at California State University, Northridge, Dr. Tamalis worked at California State University, San Bernardino and prior to that at Florida Memorial University.

“Overall, student success is at the center of everything I do,” says Dr. Tamalis. “I have an ever-present focus on issues of access, diversity, equity and inclusion so that the campus is a place where everyone, students, faculty and staff belong and thrive.”

A seasoned and dedicated professional, Victoria Shipley brings over eight years of experience in diverse areas at the University of the Incarnate Word. Her UIW journey began in May 2016 within the School of Rehabilitation Sciences, and since then, she has steadily expanded her expertise across various crucial university functions. As the Director of Operations and Planning, Ms. Shipley supports the Provost Leadership Team by overseeing all operations in the Provost’s Office and serving as a liaison between the Division of Academic Affairs and the other university’s divisions. She works closely with the Academic Affairs Business Manager to support the administrative assistants throughout Academic Affairs and reports directly to the Provost.

Ms. Shipley is a champion for fostering a vibrant and inclusive community at UIW. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Legal Studies, a Master of Science degree in Organizational Development and Leadership and is currently pursuing a Master of Arts degree in Industrial and Organizational Psychology from UIW. This deep understanding of educational institutions, coupled with her unwavering commitment to diversity and inclusion, makes her a valuable asset to the Academic Affairs leadership team.

As a first-generation Latina, Ms. Shipley is passionately dedicated to empowering individuals and communities. She firmly believes in harnessing the unique perspectives and strengths of all team members to create a dynamic and inclusive work environment. Her unwavering support for marginalized groups extends beyond her professional life, where she actively advocates for providing opportunities, education, and support to uplift entire communities.

Michelle Rodriguez, M.A.A., is the Business Manager for Academic Affairs in the Office of the Provost. She earned her Master of Arts in Administration from the University of the Incarnate Word. Michelle joined UIW in October 2008, and has over 28 years in finance prior to joining academic affairs. In her role she manages the academic affairs budget and provides support to personnel. “I enjoy using my skills and knowledge to help everyone I possibly can," says Michelle. "I am grateful that I have had the opportunity to continue my education and meet some wonderful people.” Michelle currently resides in Floresville, Texas, where she enjoys talking with her neighbors and watching the deer roam house to house.

Kevin B. Vichcales, Ph.D. is Associate Provost for Undergraduate and Graduate Education. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in History from Albion College, and Master of Arts and Ph.D. in Modern European History from Western Michigan University. In his role as Associate Provost for Undergraduate and Graduate Education, he provides vision and leadership for undergraduate and graduate student learning and success, including the formulation and implementation of all academic plans, policies, priorities and innovations. He ensures these are aligned with the University’s Strategic Plan and Mission to ensure that all programs identify and achieve the highest standards to prepare our trainees for leadership in their respective fields.