Dr. Travis Madison appointed Assistant Vice President and Dean at VU Jasper

September 14, 2026

VINCENNES, Ind. - Vincennes University President Dr. Chuck Johnson has announced the appointment of Dr. Travis Madison as the new Assistant Vice President and Dean of the Vincennes University Jasper Campus after a national search.

Johnson said, “I have known Travis professionally for some time and have appreciated the opportunity this process has given me to get to know him even better. I was especially impressed by his enthusiasm for VU Jasper, his understanding of the role the campus plays in southwestern Indiana, and his ideas about how we can continue to grow our impact in the region.”

Madison’s background makes him an exceptionally strong fit for VU Jasper.

He currently serves as the superintendent of New Albany-Floyd County Schools and brings more than 30 years of experience in public education, along with deep ties to southern Indiana and a strong understanding of the schools, communities, and employers the University serves.

Madison commands immense expertise in K-12 education, career and technical education (CTE), dual credit/dual enrollment, workforce preparation, and understands the importance of flourishing partnerships among schools, universities, employers, and communities.

These essential collaborations lie at the heart of everything the University does and will continue to build on VU Jasper’s strong foundation by creating even greater opportunities ahead.

“My first priority will be listening, learning, and building upon the tremendous foundation already in place at VU Jasper,” Madison said. “I believe strong relationships and meaningful partnerships are essential to the success of any institution, and I look forward to strengthening our connections with students, faculty, staff, alumni, community leaders, K-12 schools, and industry partners. By working closely with our regional schools, businesses, industries, and communities, VU Jasper can continue to be a leader in developing the talented workforce our region and state need. Ultimately, my goal is to work alongside a great team to ensure that every learner who comes through our doors can see a pathway to a brighter future, and that Vincennes University Jasper continues to be an institution that transforms lives and strengthens communities.”

He added, “I am particularly excited about the opportunity to continue building clear and meaningful pathways for both traditional students and adult learners. Vincennes University has an incredible opportunity to help individuals identify their strengths and interests and connect them with education, training, and experiences that lead to fulfilling and high-wage careers.”

Madison’s dedication to expanding student pathways is grounded in decades of educational leadership across southern Indiana.

He is a native of Washington, Indiana, and spent 21 years with Barr-Reeve Community Schools, serving as principal and later superintendent. More recently, Madison has led one of southern Indiana’s largest school corporations and worked closely with VU’s CTE Early College at Prosser Career Education Center, as well as its other top-tier career and technical education programs.

Madison’s academic background includes a doctorate in Education from Oakland City University. He also holds a master’s degree in Educational Leadership and Administration along with an Educational Specialist degree in Educational Administration and Supervision, both from Indiana State University. He received a bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education and Teaching from the University of Evansville.

Madison will begin his duties at VU on Sept. 28, 2026. VU Jasper Assistant Dean of Academic and Student Services Ali Tempel has served as interim dean at the campus since June 26, 2026.

“Stepping into the role of Assistant Vice President and Dean of the Vincennes University Jasper Campus is both an incredible honor and an exciting new challenge,” Madison said. “Throughout my career, I have been blessed to serve alongside outstanding people and organizations, and I am excited to bring the relationships, experiences, and lessons I have gained over nearly three decades in education into this new opportunity. Relationships have always been at the heart of my work, and I look forward to strengthening the many relationships I have developed throughout my career while also creating new connections with the students, faculty, staff, community, industry, and alumni of Vincennes University.”

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