VCU news

By Mike Porter

Gypsy M. Denzine, Ph.D., has been hired as senior vice provost for faculty affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University, and will begin her new role at the university Aug. 6.

Denzine comes to VCU with more than 25 years of experience in higher education, most recently as dean of the College of Education and Human Services at West Virginia University. She previously served as associate provost for community engagement at WVU and formerly spent 17 years in various faculty and administrative positions at Northern Arizona University, including two years as dean of its College of Education.

“I am thrilled to work with the Virginia Commonwealth University community to enhance our overall student experience by recruiting, supporting and recognizing outstanding faculty members,” Denzine said. “VCU’s strong commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion is an ideal fit for my professional experience and values. I look forward to collaborating with others to ensure academic quality, advance research and creative endeavors, help faculty members thrive and foster an inclusive environment for all. It is an exciting time to join VCU and make Richmond my new home.”

In her new role, Denzine will provide oversight for faculty development and support activities including the promotion process for tenured, tenure-eligible and term faculty. She also will oversee the performance planning and evaluation process for teaching and research faculty, the Office of Faculty Recruitment and Retention and the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence.

“Dr. Denzine’s extensive experience, accomplishments, and leadership appointments make her well-suited to lead the programs and activities that will support VCU’s faculty,” said Gail Hackett, Ph.D., provost and vice president for academic affairs at VCU.

Denzine, who began her career in residence life and academic programming, has conducted research in college student development, learning and motivation. She is the current president of The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi. Denzine earned a bachelor’s degree in social work from St. Cloud State University, a master’s degree in educational leadership and counseling from the University of Texas at El Paso, and a doctoral degree in educational psychology from the University of Northern Colorado.