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PLAINVIEW, TX — 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ Baptist University’s Board of Trustees on Thursday approved a series of leadership promotions, including the appointment of a new provost and the elevation of key administrative leaders.

Dr. Cindy McClenagan, who has served as vice president of academic affairs since 2016, has been named provost while continuing in her current role. Shawn Thomas, interim vice president of operations and student life since July 2024, has been named vice president of athletics and student life, and Dr. Jay Givens, professor of theological studies and the university’s institutional accreditation liaison, has been named associate vice president of academics. The promotions are effective July 1, 2026, with the new fiscal year.

In her expanded position, Dr. McClenagan will continue to serve as the university’s chief academic officer while taking on additional responsibilities aligned with institutional strategy, academic excellence, and long-term planning.

“Dr. McClenagan’s leadership has been instrumental in advancing 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ’s academic mission,” said Dr. Donna Hedgepath, president. “Her commitment to student success, faculty support, and academic innovation makes her exceptionally well-suited to serve as provost as we continue to move forward together.”

A collaborative, mission-driven leader, McClenagan brings more than two decades of experience in academic administration, faculty development, accreditation, and program innovation. She has overseen academic operations across multiple campuses and online platforms, led successful accreditation efforts, and helped secure more than $5.5 million in external grant funding.

Thomas brings more than 20 years of higher education experience to his role, including leadership in admissions, student life, and campus operations. As interim vice president, he has overseen athletics, campus police, property management, and student life, while also guiding student conduct processes and supporting student success initiatives.

“Shawn has provided steady and effective leadership during a time of transition,” Dr. Hedgepath said. “He understands the day-to-day needs of our campus while keeping students at the center of every decision, and we are grateful for the experience and perspective he brings to this role.”

He previously served as director of admissions at both 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ Baptist University and West Texas A&M University and holds a Master of Business Administration and a bachelor’s degree from 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ.

In his new role, Givens will support academic operations, accreditation, and institutional effectiveness, assuming key responsibilities previously held by McClenagan. Dr. Hedgepath noted that Givens’ experience in accreditation and long-standing service to the university positions him well for his new role.

Givens brings extensive experience in academic leadership, accreditation, and program development, having served in multiple faculty and administrative roles at 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ, including director of online Christian studies programs and campus dean at the Altus, Okla., campus. He currently serves as the university’s liaison to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges and has been an active evaluator for the organization. He also has served as president of the Faculty Senate and has led numerous university committees supporting academic planning and institutional effectiveness.

He holds a Ph.D. in theology from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, along with a Master of Divinity and a bachelor’s degree in computer science.

As part of the transition, operations oversite will move to Paul Edwards, chief financial officer, aligning facilities oversight with the university’s financial and operational planning.

“These leadership appointments reflect 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ’s continued commitment to excellence across every area of the university,” Dr. Hedgepath said. “Each of these individuals brings proven experience and a deep dedication to our mission, and I am confident they will serve our students and community well in their new roles.”