Abe Harraf became the Senior Vice President and Provost of the University of Northern Colorado in May of 2007. He was attracted to UNC because its size allows the faculty to focus on teaching and providing personalized attention to each student. Provost Harraf oversees the Division of Academic Affairs, whose primary mission is to design and deliver quality academic programs at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Additionally, Academic Affairs strives to achieve international prominence in teaching, research and service, to promote the advancement and application of knowledge and to serve faculty, staff and students. Dr. Harraf is committed to diversity, an inclusive and respectful learning environment and making UNC a truly great institution.
Dr. Harraf earned a Ph.D. in Economics from Utah State University, a M.Ed. in Guidance and Counseling and M.B.A. from Sul Ross State University and a BA in English Literature from the College of Translation in Iran. His family has deep roots in the field of education. His grandmother opened the first women’s school in Tabriz, Iran, his mother was an educator and Dr. Harraf has more than two decades of experience in academic leadership.
Dr. Harraf began his career as an Assistant Professor at Embry-Riddle University in Prescott, Arizona, and quickly became Department Chair. He was then hired at Embry-Riddle’s Daytona Beach campus, where he served as Department Chair, Campus Dean and Chief Academic Officer. Dr. Harraf then led Southern Utah University as Provost and Professor of Management for five years, before accepting the position of Provost and tenured professor of Management at UNC.
Dr. Harraf and his wife, Tabby, have been married for 31 years and have two daughters. Dr. Harraf enjoys spending time with family, reading and playing racquetball.