In higher education, leaders play a crucial role in student development, often defining institutional success. Effective leadership in this field requires accountability, vision, and specialized skills. Leaders must grasp academic and organizational dynamics while remaining dedicated to student growth and institutional progress.
Donna Price Henry, Chancellor at The University of Virginia’s College at Wise (UVA–Wise), exemplifies these attributes. With a background in educational technology and student development, Henry merges innovative strategies with practical solutions. Her expertise in technical writing, organizational development, and training has set high standards in higher education.
Dr. Henry’s academic credentials further strengthen her leadership. She earned a Ph.D. in Physiology from Thomas Jefferson University, reflecting her solid grounding in scientific and educational disciplines. This blend of skills and experiences has shaped her leadership approach, leading to significant advancements at UVA–Wise.
Journey from Academia to Chancellorship
Dr. Henry’s career journey reflects her strong commitment to academia and leadership, culminating in her current role as the eighth Chancellor of The University of Virginia’s College at Wise. She began her path with a Bachelor of Arts in Biological Basis of Behavior from the University of Pennsylvania, where she also minored in Spanish. This interdisciplinary foundation in biology and behavior, combined with language studies, laid the groundwork for her subsequent academic and leadership roles.
After completing her undergraduate studies, Henry earned a Doctorate in Physiology from Thomas Jefferson University. This advanced training deepened her expertise in the biological sciences and prepared her for the demands of higher education leadership. Equipped with a solid academic background, she embarked on a career in higher education that spanned several decades and included various roles.
Before becoming Chancellor at UVA–Wise, Dr. Henry spent 16 years at Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU). There, she made significant contributions as a founding faculty member and served in diverse roles, including faculty senate president and a member of the University Board of Trustees. These roles highlighted her leadership skills and commitment to faculty governance and institutional development.
Her most notable position at FGCU was as the dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. This role required strategic planning and leadership, during which she managed the College’s rapid growth while maintaining high academic standards. Her success in this role showcased her ability to lead and manage a complex educational institution, paving the way for her future as Chancellor of UVA-Wise.
On December 7, 2012, the University of Virginia Board of Visitors elected Dr. Henry as Chancellor of The University of Virginia’s College at Wise. She officially took office on January 18, 2013. As Chancellor, she leads UVA-Wise in its mission of student success and service to Southwest Virginia and the Commonwealth. Her leadership has been crucial in advancing the College’s vision, as demonstrated by initiatives such as the Honor the Future Campaign and The 2030 Plan for UVA–Wise.
Commitment to Student Success and Expanding Academic Horizons
The University of Virginia’s College at Wise, nestled in the serene mountains of Southwest Virginia, is a center for academic excellence and community service. This public, four-year residential liberal arts college combines rigorous education with personalized attention, all within the picturesque Appalachian region. Chancellor Donna Price Henry captures the institution’s mission: “At UVA-Wise, our mission is simple: student success and service to the region.” This mission reflects the College’s dedication to fostering an environment where students thrive academically and personally, preparing them to contribute meaningfully to their communities and beyond.
The College’s commitment to student success appears in its diverse selection of undergraduate programs, designed to cater to various interests and career goals. For instance, students can pursue a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with concentrations in Accounting, Finance, and Management. Other options include degrees in Early Childhood, Elementary, and Secondary Education, equipping students with essential skills for their future careers. Additionally, the health sciences are well-represented with programs in Nursing and Health and Physical Education, preparing graduates for impactful roles in healthcare and wellness.
Students can also explore majors in humanities, social sciences, science, and technology, such as English, History, Political Science, Sociology, Biology, Chemistry, and Computer Science. These programs blend academic learning with hands-on experience. Those seeking a flexible academic path might opt for Interdisciplinary Studies or the Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts, which allows students to tailor their education to their interests and career aspirations. Through its focus on excellence in teaching, individual growth, and regional service, UVA-Wise ensures that its graduates are academically prepared to lead and serve globally while remaining deeply connected to their local community.
Chancellor Donna Price Henry’s Legacy at UVA-Wise
Over the past decade, Dr. Henry has significantly influenced The University of Virginia’s College at Wise through her leadership and dedication to the institution and its community. As Chancellor, she has led a series of transformative initiatives that have positioned UVA-Wise as a hub of opportunity and innovation in Southwest Virginia.
One of her key achievements includes launching the innovate2eleVAte initiative in 2019, which provided every student, staff member, and faculty member with an iPad, Apple Pencil, and keyboard. This initiative proved essential during the COVID-19 pandemic, enabling the College to transition smoothly to virtual learning. As a result, UVA-Wise received the Apple Distinguished School designation in 2021, recognizing its innovative use of technology in education.
Chancellor Henry also expanded educational opportunities by securing the largest gift in the College’s history—$10 million from Hunter J. Smith and the Hunter Smith Family Foundation, matched by UVA’s Strategic Investment Fund. This $20 million gift established the Carl W. Smith Bicentennial Scholars Funds, which have awarded scholarships to over 100 students, particularly supporting first-generation and STEM students.
Under Chancellor Henry’s leadership, UVA-Wise has also expanded its academic offerings and research capacity. The College is now approved to offer graduate programs, with the first set to launch soon. In 2023, the Little Cavaliers Early Learning Center will open, providing essential childcare services to the community.
Her leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic further highlighted her ability to guide the College through challenging times. Chancellor Henry ensured the safety and well-being of the campus community while maintaining the College’s educational mission. Her steady leadership during this period demonstrated her capacity to navigate crises with resolve and compassion.
Additionally, Chancellor Henry has advanced diversity, equity, and inclusion at UVA-Wise. In the 2014-15 academic year, she collaborated with Tabitha Smith to establish the College’s first Office for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Now it is renamed as the Office of Advocacy and Opportunity.This office has been crucial in fostering a more inclusive campus environment where all members feel valued and supported.
Enhancing Student Life and Well-Being
Chancellor Henry is committed to fostering a vibrant, supportive, and inclusive student life at UVA-Wise. As Chancellor, she has played a key role in shaping the Division of Student Affairs, which integrates intellectual and personal growth within the liberal arts community.
Under her guidance, the College offers a variety of programs and services designed to enhance student engagement. These include first-year initiatives, leadership opportunities, and activities that promote active involvement. Whether students are local or from afar, they find a welcoming community on campus where they can form lifelong friendships.
Student recreation plays a crucial role in campus life. The College provides numerous activities, sports, and wellness programs that complement academic learning. The UVA-Wise Wellness program, one of Chancellor Henry’s key initiatives, supports students’ physical and mental health with tailored resources and classes.
Chancellor Henry has also established clear Community Standards and a Student Code of Conduct, focusing on accountability and the importance of understanding one’s actions. Detailed in the Student Handbook, these standards outline campus resources and foster a respectful and responsible campus culture.
To further support students, Chancellor Henry developed the CARE Team, an interdisciplinary group that addresses crises and supports students facing emotional or academic distress. This team ensures that students receive the help they need to navigate their challenges.
Traditions play a crucial role in the College’s culture, and Chancellor Henry encourages students to engage with UVA Wise’s rich history through various annual events. Under her direction, the Student Government Association represents the student body, overseeing organizations, activities, and community improvements.
Chancellor Henry also addresses the practical needs of students. The College offers anonymous access to food and hygiene products for students facing food insecurity and provides transportation services, including local options and airport shuttles.
Vision of Excellence: UVA Wise’s Commitment to Student Success
Chancellor Henry’s efforts to reduce student debt are evident in the College’s financial aid offerings. Eighty percent of students receive financial support, which helps alleviate the burden of tuition. This focus on affordability contributes to the impressive statistic that 97 percent of graduates are either employed or continuing their education.
Her vision for UVA–Wise underscores its role as a leading public liberal arts institution dedicated to student success and community service. Her leadership ensures that the College remains a distinguished choice for students seeking a well-rounded and enriching educational experience.
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