New Senior Vice Provost Named at University of Memphis

Hill-Clarke to Help Build Collaborative Culture, Advance Faculty Professional Development

Monday, June 10, 2024 — An accomplished academic and administrator will take on a new role as Senior Vice Provost for Faculty Affairs and Leadership Development, the University of Memphis announced today. 

Kandi Hill-Clarke, Ed.D., was most recently the Provost Fellow for Faculty Affairs and Leadership Development, a role she took after serving as Dean of the College of Education (COE) from 2017-2023. 

“Dr. Hill-Clarke has an uncommon breadth and depth of experience in academic administration and leadership development,” said David Russomanno, Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost. “In this role, she will help the Division of Academic Affairs implement key elements of the Ascend strategic plan focused on faculty professional development, advancement and leadership, recognition, rewards and retention, as well as foster an open, trust-based collaborative culture.” 

During her tenure as dean, the COE experienced enrollment growth and significant increases in both state and national rankings, donor engagement, philanthropic support, faculty research and grant productivity. Under Hill-Clarke’s leadership, the college strengthened strategic partnerships and launched several new initiatives focused on student success and engagement, such as Student Appreciation Day and the COE Student Ambassadors program.  

Hill-Clarke also established the COE Faculty and Staff Leadership Academy and Summer Faculty Research Initiative. 

In her role as Senior Vice Provost for Faculty Affairs and Leadership Development, Hill-Clarke will provide oversight for programs and strategic initiatives that support and enhance faculty development, retention and advancement. 

“I am excited about this new role and look forward to working with colleagues across the University as we advance faculty and leader development,” said Hill-Clarke. 

In addition to being a 2023 Freedom Award Honoree, Hill-Clarke is also a 2020 SPARK award recipient and a member of the 2020 Leadership Memphis Executive Class.

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MEDIA CONTACT:
Jennifer Godwin
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