American University of Rome, Provost

The American University of Rome (AUR) appointed Dr. Sabrina Joseph as provost and vice president of academic affairs. 

Dr. Joseph brings more than two decades of experience in international higher education leadership and academic innovation and joins AUR at a moment of continued institutional growth. She most recently served as provost and chief academic officer at the American University in Dubai (AUD), where she played a central role in advancing the university’s academic strategy, expanding undergraduate and graduate offerings, and strengthening global partnerships. 

Throughout her administrative career, Dr. Joseph has led successful accreditation processes with U.S. and international bodies, expanded interdisciplinary and experiential learning opportunities, and promoted inclusive, student‑centered governance. She has also been recognized for advancing sustainability initiatives and strengthening institutional planning in complex global contexts.

A historian by training, Dr. Joseph is a renowned scholar of Middle Eastern history (17th–20th centuries), with research interests spanning environmental sustainability, interfaith relations, and the historical management of natural resources. She has authored multiple books and peer‑reviewed publications and is a frequent speaker at international academic and policy forums. Her interdisciplinary scholarly background further enriches AUR’s global arts mission and academic reputation.

As provost and vice president of academic affairs, Dr. Joseph will lead AUR’s academic enterprise and play a key role in advancing curricular innovation, strengthening liberal arts foundations, expanding graduate education, and enhancing student success—building on the university’s strategic priorities and its distinctive location at the crossroads of global cultures.

Dr. Joseph holds a Ph.D. in History and an M.A. in Arab Studies from Georgetown University, as well as a B.A. from New College of Florida.

Read the full press release here.

Daniel Rodas led this search with Amble Ryan and Nicole Sancilio.