Greg D. Pillar

Associate Provost for Academic Affairs at Queens University of Charlotte

Greg D. Pillar, Ph.D., currently serves as the Associate Provost for Academic Affairs at Queens University of Charlotte. He is a dynamic academic leader with over two decades of experience in higher education, during which he has driven strategic initiatives across academic operations, curriculum innovation, university programs, and student success. His extensive expertise encompasses program management, faculty development, accreditation, student success, career development, international education, and diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts.

Dr. Pillar’s career is marked by a commitment to fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, advancing institutional goals, and championing initiatives that enhance both the academic and personal development of students. A versatile scholar and administrator, he has held leadership roles at the department, college, and university levels, as well as in faculty governance. His focus on achieving student success outcomes is grounded in his dedication and ability to balance operational excellence with forward-thinking educational strategies.

As a professor of environmental science and chemistry, Dr. Pillar’s research has focused on the sustainability of soil and water resources and global food security, guiding his interdisciplinary teaching across both environmental and chemical sciences. He has mentored numerous research projects and led global travel experiences that enrich student learning beyond the classroom. His leadership extends to crisis management, accreditation oversight, and implementing strategic campus initiatives, including leading efforts to launch new centers, offices, and initiatives for academic community engagement, high-achieving students, and undergraduate research.

Dr. Pillar is recognized for his collaborative leadership style, strategic planning capabilities, and adaptability in navigating the evolving landscape of higher education. His work continues to bridge academic innovation with practical solutions, ensuring that institutions remain resilient and responsive to the needs of the modern learner.

Dr. Pillar earned his Ph.D. in Agronomy with a focus on Environmental Chemistry from the University of Georgia, his M.S. in Agronomy (Soil Science) from Kansas State University, and his B.S. in Environmental Science (Soil Science & Hydrology) from the University of Minnesota.