Dear University of Vermont Faculty, Staff, and Students: We recently shared the news that Dr. Wanda Heading-Grant has been selected as Carnegie Mellon University’s inaugural Vice Provost for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and Chief Diversity Officer. We wish her every success in this important new role.

Since the announcement, we’ve given a great deal of thought to how we can most effectively build upon UVM’s progress in this critically important area. In consultation with Wanda, we have revised the position’s title to Vice Provost for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion as a reflection of our intent to deepen the position’s integration with and impact on our academic mission. We are pleased to announce that Dean Leslie Parise and Vice Provost Jim Vigoreaux will co-chair the committee leading a national search for Wanda’s successor.

Wanda has left an indelible mark on our institution, and she has much she still wants to do before concluding her UVM tenure on March 30. Following a successful Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. event, Wanda will focus her efforts on Black Board Jungle 13, the new Davis Center Display Case honoring diversity, and instituting a Diversity Council. During this time, and until a permanent Vice Provost for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion is appointed, Sherwood Smith, Senior Executive Director of the division, has agreed to oversee the division’s day-to-day management.

Wanda did not want to miss the opportunity to say goodbye to her colleagues in person, so we will celebrate her contributions to our institution when we can once again gather in person.