Professor of Philosophy Alfred MacKay will assume the position of provost on July 1 when Clayton Koppes resigns from the position, President Nancy Dye announced in a letter to the Oberlin community this week.

MacKay has worked at Oberlin since 1967 in various capacities. He served as Dean of the College from 1984 until 1995 under President S. Fredrick Starr. He briefly served as president of the College in 1991 when Starr went on sabbatical.

“I know Oberlin pretty well,” said MacKay. “I think I have a fairly wide experience with a variety of aspects of the College and I know how things work when you take the institutional perspective.”

The current provost also spoke highly of MacKay’s qualifications.

“Al MacKay is one of our most experienced faculty members, and he contributed dedicated service as dean during the Starr presidency,” Koppes said. “He is devoted to the best interests of Oberlin College.”

The provost position was created at the beginning of this academic year to oversee the non-academic staff of the College and allow Dye more time to concentrate on fundraising.

Koppes became the center of some controversy due to his involvement in the cancellation of the Oberlin-in-London program.

MacKay declined to comment on the events of this year but stated his support for a policy of institutional transparency.

“I think it’s a good thing and we ought to try and do it when we can,” he said. “When I make decisions I consult with everyone I can possibly consult with. However, practicalities can sometimes get in the way.”

After Koppes announced his resignation for personal reasons in February, Dye described herself as being in “deliberation mode” as to whether to continue the position.

“Is this really a good idea?” she wondered.  “I decided in the affirmative.”

As for Oberlin’s priorities, MacKay has stated an effort to exert greater control over Oberlin’s national image.

“What we really need to do is keep an eye on the proper balance between the academic and the socio-political,” he said. “Everyone knows social justice means a lot here and that will continue to be true. Oberlin is also a first class high quality academic operation and this image may have come somewhat out of balance.”