Metropolitan State University of Denver has named Matt Makley, Ph.D., provost and executive vice president for Academic Affairs. The appointment, announced by President Janine Davidson, Ph.D., on Thursday, is effective May 1.
Makley, a veteran faculty member and respected academic leader, has served the University for almost 20 years, most recently as interim provost since January. His permanent appointment follows a swift and inclusive hiring process during which he emerged as the clear choice to lead MSU Denver’s academic enterprise into its next chapter, Davidson said in an announcement to University employees.
“Dr. Makley has been a cornerstone of MSU Denver’s academic community for nearly two decades,” she said. “He is known for student-centered teaching, his deep respect for shared governance and his enduring commitment to academic excellence and workforce readiness.”
As interim provost, Makley provided steady and empathetic leadership at a pivotal time for the University, partnering with faculty and staff to advance strategic initiatives and strengthen academic operations. His tenure was marked by transparent communication and a collaborative ethos that emphasized inclusivity and mutual respect.
“His thoughtful and collaborative approach reflects his belief that meaningful change comes from empowering others and elevating diverse perspectives,” Davidson added.
Makley previously chaired the Department of History and served as president of the Faculty Senate, roles in which he consistently advocated for faculty and student needs while upholding the University’s mission of access and equity.
A historian by training, Makley specializes in Indigenous North America, Colorado water history and the American West. He holds a Ph.D. in History from Arizona State University and has published widely on topics related to the American West.
Davidson expressed gratitude to the hiring committee and the broader campus community for participating in the expedited selection process. “Dr. Makley’s qualifications and institutional fit made him a clear choice,” she said. “I am confident that under his guidance, our academic mission will thrive and our faculty, staf and students will be well-positioned to meet the challenges — and opportunities — that lie ahead.”
A vision for the future
In stepping into the provost role, Makley emphasized three top priorities, starting with “careful, conscientious stewardship.”
“I want to ensure we are thoughtful stewards of students’, families’ and taxpayers’ significant investment in MSU Denver,” he said. “For there to be a positive return on those investments, we need to retain students and see them through to graduation.”
That leads to his second focus: retention and graduation rates. “Yes, there is a financial piece to this and the University’s revenue stream that we must pay attention to,” he said. “But I would rather frame our efforts around the shared responsibility to our students and those who are supporting them, to help them persist and graduate.”
Makley’s third priority is to foster a culture of shared responsibility and mutual respect across the University. “We do not always agree, nor should we. But we can disagree respectfully,” he said. “Healthy professional relationships across units are essential to the University’s long-term health.”
A deep commitment
Makley said he is eager to continue working alongside colleagues across campus and to contribute to the institution’s long-term success. Amid challenges in higher education and beyond, Makley also offered words of encouragement to University employees.
“From the inception of our University, we have had to fight to survive,” he said. “That fight has made us strong, innovative and resilient. We owe those who came before us a tremendous debt. When external forces gathered to shut the infant Metropolitan State College down, our predecessors fought and survived. So will we. But we must do it together.”
