Transylvania University President Seamus Carey on Monday announced that Director of Admissions Johnnie Johnson will serve as interim vice president for enrollment, and Dean of Students Michael Covert will serve as interim vice president for student life, both beginning July 1.
Johnnie Johnson was named Transylvania’s admissions director in 2018 and currently serves as the president of the Kentucky Association of College Admissions Counseling. A native of Chicago, he holds a bachelor’s degree from Cornell College, where he majored in sociology and economics & business. He is a board member for the YMCA of Central Kentucky’s Black Achievers program and a member of Kappa Alpha Phi Fraternity Inc.
“I’m excited to take on the role as interim vice president for enrollment as we continue to expand our recruiting efforts throughout the region, across the country and beyond our borders,” Johnson said. “We remain committed to enrolling the best and brightest students so that our university can continue to prepare them for lifelong learning and social responsibility.”
Michael Covert graduated from Transylvania in 1991. He has served his alma mater since 1996, having worked in the areas of financial aid, admissions, residence life, retention and student life. Formerly the associate dean of students and associate vice president of retention, Covert moved to the dean of students role in 2016. He earned his master’s in student affairs administration from Indiana University, and holds a Ph.D. in educational policy studies and evaluation from the University of Kentucky. Prior to working at Transylvania, he also held positions at Washington University in St. Louis’ student life area. Covert also serves as an adjunct instructor at the University of Kentucky, and he is a former president of the College Personnel Association of Kentucky.
“I am excited to serve my alma mater as the interim vice president for student affairs,” Covert said. “Our student body continues to be bright, talented and driven, and I look forward to our team continuing to enable the best possible Pioneer experience. Transy is home to me, and I know from personal experience that student life, when done well, augments everything taught within the classroom. It is an invaluable piece of the growth opportunities that Transy offers our students.”