Christian Brothers University has appointed Matthew Domas EdD as Vice President for Academic Affairs. He will serve as the University’s chief academic officer and report directly to President Ronald L. Brandon.

Domas joins CBU with more than three decades of higher education leadership experience and a long record of service at Northwest Mississippi Community College, where he has held executive leadership roles spanning instruction, institutional effectiveness, workforce development, student services, strategic planning, and accreditation.

Brandon said the appointment comes at an important moment for the University’s continued momentum.

“Christian Brothers University is building for the future, and Domas is the right leader to guide our academic enterprise in this next chapter,” Brandon said. “He brings deep experience in academic operations, faculty leadership, innovation, and accreditation, along with a strong understanding of the needs of students and the Memphis region. Most importantly, he understands how to align academic excellence with mission, accountability, and long-term institutional strength.”

The appointment follows a period of steady academic leadership under Interim Vice President for Academic Affairs Jack Hargett, Ph.D., who has guided the division with dedication and care. As Hargett prepares for retirement, the University extends its sincere gratitude for his service and the lasting impact he has made on CBU’s academic mission, faculty, and students. 

At Northwest Mississippi Community College, Domas most recently served as Vice President of Instruction and SACSCOC Liaison, overseeing instruction across multiple campuses, online learning, dual enrollment partnerships, health sciences, workforce training, and research and effectiveness initiatives. His leadership experience also includes strategic planning, enrollment growth, program expansion, and faculty oversight.

Domas has played a central role in accreditation and compliance efforts for nearly two decades, leading SACSCOC compliance certifications, Fifth-Year Reviews, and Quality Enhancement Plans while supporting specialized accreditations in several academic disciplines.

As Vice President for Academic Affairs at CBU, Domas will be charged with leading academic quality, supporting faculty excellence, strengthening curriculum relevance, advancing student outcomes, and aligning Academic Affairs with institutional priorities including enrollment, retention, completion, and post-graduation success.

“I am excited about the opportunity to bring my skills and experience to Christian Brothers University,” Domas said. “I look forward to working collaboratively with faculty and staff to strengthen academic programs, support innovation in teaching and learning, and enhance student success. My focus will be on what best serves the institution, its students, and the community and to ensure that Academic Affairs upholds the mission and strategic vision of the University.”

Domas has emphasized a collaborative and visible leadership style, describing himself as an accessible leader who values engagement at all levels of an institution and uses data-informed decision-making to improve outcomes.

“The search committee had a clear vision of what we were looking for in the next VPAA,” said Dr. Drew Hampton, Associate Professor of Psychology. “We needed someone who can build bridges across campus and within the community, advocate for faculty in today’s higher education landscape, and bring a deep understanding of accreditation. Above all, we were seeking a leader aligned with the Lasallian mission. Dr. Domas checks every box and then some, and I look forward to working with him.”

The national search for CBU’s next Vice President for Academic Affairs attracted dozens of applicants. Members of the search committee and administrative staff devoted substantial time to reviewing materials, conducting interviews, and carefully evaluating candidates. President-elect Brandon expressed gratitude to the committee for its thoughtful service, diligence, and leadership throughout the process.

“The selection of our new VPAA was an excellent example of faculty and administration working together toward shared goals,” said Randel Price, Associate Dean and Graduate Coordinator for the Gadomski School of Engineering. “A faculty-majority search committee worked collaboratively to select an individual with the skills needed to ensure CBU’s future, support our students, and protect academic quality. The committee reviewed candidates thoroughly, discussed them extensively, and, through careful consideration, identified a candidate who we believe will provide strong academic leadership at this important time.”

Domas holds an Ed.D. in Higher Education Leadership and Policy from Vanderbilt University, a master’s degree in Political Science from the University of Mississippi, and a bachelor’s degree in History from Louisiana State University.

Domas will join CBU on June 1, 2026.