The Virginia Tech Office for Inclusion and Diversity has named Crasha Townsend to the position of assistant provost for diversity and inclusion. 

In her new role, Townsend will support student diversity efforts, support advancement efforts related to the InclusiveVT Excellence Fund, build and strengthen relationships with the colleges to facilitate student success, engage alumni in student diversity programming, delve into diversity strategic priorities and planning, and work on other projects that will impact inclusive experiences on campus.

She will continue to support the mission and outreach of the Student Opportunities and Achievement Resources program, which she previously led, as well as the Black College Institute and the university's Community and Cultural Centers.

“I am delighted to announce Dr. Townsend’s promotion,” said Menah Pratt-Clarke, vice president for strategic affairs and diversity. “Dr. Townsend has continually exemplified a deeply dedicated work ethic for Virginia Tech; a long-standing commitment to faculty, staff, and students of all backgrounds; and a strong leadership ability, even during the past two difficult, unsettling, and extremely challenging years.”

“I have had the privilege of working with some extremely talented students, staff, and faculty members. In building those relationships, I am able to see emerging themes, needs, and progress that is happening on campus,” said Townsend.

Townsend has held national roles in student affairs with her work within the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA), an international organization rooted in research and practice. She is also the co-director and founder of the Ujima Institute, which fosters professional development of African American administrators in higher education and is hosted through NASPA.

As a reflection of her activist roots, Townsend served two terms as the national chair for the African American Knowledge Community. She also is a faculty member for the African American Women’s Summit.

Her undergraduate work focused on integrated public relations at Central Michigan University. She received a master’s degree in higher education administration with an emphasis on college student affairs leadership from Grand Valley State University, and a Ph.D. in educational leadership from Northwest Nazarene University.

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