Nell Jessup Newton, a University of Notre Dame Professor Emerita, has been appointed as the interim provost of Wake Forest University starting August 1, 2025. Newton is recognized for her extensive experience in academia and administration, having previously served as the interim dean of Wake Forest’s School of Law during the 2022-2023 academic year.
Wake Forest President Susan R. Wente stated, “Professor Newton was a critical partner on the University Cabinet during her interim dean year, and made strong connections with the school and College deans and the Provost Office team, which makes her an excellent fit to lead during this important transition at the provost level.”
In her new role as interim Provost, Newton will oversee leadership within the Provost’s Office and Deans’ Council while rejoining the University Cabinet. She will also hold the title of University Professor. Expressing enthusiasm about her return to Wake Forest, Newton said, “I am excited to return to Wake Forest University and help the University sustain its impressive momentum during this transitional period.”
Newton holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of California, Berkeley, with a focus on ancient Greek language. She earned her J.D. from what is now known as the University of California College of Law in San Francisco.
Her career includes serving as Notre Dame Law School’s dean from 2009 to 2019 where she contributed significantly to expanding curricular strengths and international education opportunities. She is noted for being a scholar in U.S. Indian Law and serves as editor-in-chief for Cohen’s Handbook of Federal Indian Law.
Newton has held various national positions within legal education communities including roles with NALP Foundation for Law Career Research and Education, American Bar Association among others.
