Manhattan University Appoints Andy Burns as Assistant Provost for Student Success

Manhattan University is pleased to announce the appointment of Andy Burns as Assistant Provost for Student Success. In this new role, Burns will continue to oversee the Center for Advising and Student Success while assuming broader responsibilities in collaboration with deans, department chairs, faculty, and administrative units to advance the University’s strategic initiatives in student success.

Burns joined Manhattan University in 2015 as Associate Director of the Collegiate Science and Technology Entry Program (CSTEP), where he quickly distinguished himself through collaboration with programs such as the Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP). Under his leadership, the Opportunity Programs umbrella expanded with a successful CSTEP proposal to serve more students and the addition of Success @ Manhattan (S@M) in 2020.

A committed advocate for access and equity, Burns was a member of the committee that secured Manhattan University’s designation as a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) and later contributed to the successful Title V HSI grant application in 2023. As Program Manager for that grant, he led the creation of the Center for Advising and Academic Success, establishing a holistic model for academic support services on campus.

In this capacity, Burns has worked closely with colleagues across the institution to modernize and streamline student support processes. His efforts include transitioning the registration process online, implementing an online transfer equivalency platform, and developing advising resources and professional development opportunities for faculty. He has also played a central role in shaping the First-Year Experience program, which will relaunch this year.

Beyond his administrative leadership, Burns is a Principal Investigator on multiple grants. He earned both his master’s degree in Financial Management and his undergraduate degree in Sports Management from the University of Wales Institute, Cardiff (now Cardiff Metropolitan University). He is currently pursuing his Ed.D. at Touro University, where his research focuses on the barriers and needs of students transitioning into higher education.

"Andy's work ethic and dedication to the manifold needs of our students will continue to elevate the student experience and strengthen our community in meaningful and lasting ways, says Bridget Chalk, Interim Provost for Academic Affairs."

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About Manhattan University
Founded in 1853, Manhattan University is an independent Lasallian Catholic institution located in Riverdale, NY that embraces students of all faiths, cultures, and traditions. The mission of the University is to provide a dynamic student-centered educational experience that prepares graduates for lives of personal development, professional success, civic engagement, and service to their fellow human beings. Manhattan University offers programs that integrate a broad liberal arts education coupled with a concentration in specific disciplines in the arts and sciences with professional preparation in business and engineering, ensuring graduates will excel in their chosen fields. The University consists of the Kakos School of Arts & Sciences, the O’Malley School of Business, and the School of Engineering. For further information, please visit www.manhattan.edu.