PennWest University has announced the appointment of two senior leaders who will help guide the university’s continued momentum and strategic growth. 

Kristy Bishop has been appointed provost and vice president for Academic Affairs, serving as the university’s chief academic officer and providing leadership for PennWest’s academic vision, student success initiatives, faculty engagement and innovative program development. 

Bishop currently serves as vice president for institutional field relations for the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Previously, she served as interim president and vice president for academic affairs at Westmoreland County Community College. She brings extensive leadership experience in higher education, with expertise in academic administration, accreditation, assessment, strategic planning and student success initiatives across multi-campus institutions. 

Bishop’s background has focused heavily on first- and second-year student retention, academic support strategies and institutional effectiveness. As PennWest continues to advance competency-based and flexible instructional models, her experience with accreditation and academic innovation will provide valuable leadership and guidance. 

Terri Albertson has been appointed vice president for Finance and Administration and CFO, overseeing the university’s financial strategy, budgeting, operations and long-range fiscal planning in support of PennWest’s mission and future sustainability. 

Throughout her career, Albertson has held multiple senior financial leadership and CFO roles in higher education and nonprofit organizations. She brings expertise in strategic budgeting, operational planning, financial compliance, audit management and organizational stewardship. Her experience in nonprofit public accounting and institutional finance provides a strong foundation for supporting continued financial sustainability and operational effectiveness. 

“These appointments represent an important step forward for PennWest as we continue building a strong, student-focused future,” said Jon Anderson, president of PennWest University. “Both leaders bring exceptional experience, collaborative leadership styles, and a deep commitment to higher education. Their expertise will help strengthen our academic excellence, operational effectiveness and long-term impact across the communities we serve.” 

As provost, Bishop will work closely with faculty, deans, and university leadership to advance academic quality, expand career-connected learning opportunities, and support innovation across PennWest’s colleges and schools. 

“I am honored to join PennWest University at such an exciting time,” said Bishop. “PennWest’s commitment to access, student success, and workforce relevance strongly aligns with my values and professional experience. I look forward to working collaboratively with faculty, staff, students, and community partners to continue advancing the university’s mission.” 

As CFO, Albertson will provide strategic oversight for the university’s financial and administrative operations while supporting institutional priorities focused on sustainability, student-centered investment, and operational excellence. 

“PennWest has built tremendous momentum through its integrated model and forward-looking vision,” Albertson said. “I’m excited to join the university and help support its continued growth through thoughtful financial stewardship and strategic planning.” 

The appointments come as PennWest continues to advance initiatives focused on student access, affordability, academic innovation, workforce alignment, and community partnerships across its campuses in California, Clarion, Edinboro and Global Online. 

Both leaders are expected to begin their roles on July 1, 2026.

Pictured: Kristy Bishop (left) and Terri Albertson