Fort Valley State University's Office of the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs
today announced the appointment of Dr. Kermelle D. Hensley as the new executive director for Strategic Academic Partnerships and Student Engagement. She will also serve as the QEP (Quality Enhancement Program) director.

Dr. Hensley brings a wealth of experience in academia and a passion for fostering a culture of engagement and student success, including, most recently, serving as vice president of Academic Affairs & Institutional Effectiveness at Columbus Technical College in Columbus, Ga.

"I am honored to be appointed as the executive director for Strategic Academic Partnerships and Student Engagement at Fort Valley State University," said Dr. Hensley. "I am thrilled to lead the charge in forging innovative and impactful partnerships with academic and industry leaders. Together, we will blaze new trails, create unparalleled opportunities for our students and faculty, and set the standard for student engagement in higher education. I can't wait to see the future we will shape together."

Dr. Hensley holds a doctorate and an education specialist degree in Educational Leadership from Columbus State University. She also has a master's degree in Human Resource Management from Troy State University in Ft. Benning, Ga., and a bachelor’s degree in English Language and Literature from CSU.

"We are excited to have Dr. Hensley join our team," said Dr. Olufunke Fontenot. "Her experience, passion, and drive will be valuable as we continue building strong relationships with our partners and creating opportunities for our students. We look forward to the contributions Dr. Hensley will make to our community and her impact on our students' success."

Under Dr. Hensley's leadership, FVSU's Office of Strategic Academic Partnerships and Student Engagement will continue to develop and strengthen partnerships with academic and industry leaders while also creating opportunities for students to get involved and succeed in their academic and professional pursuits.

Along with her robust professional engagements, Dr. Hensley is actively involved in several professional organizations, including Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society, Kiwanis International, Golden K Club, Leadership Columbus, NANBPW Club, GISEM – Registered Enrollment Professional Charter Member (GACRAO) and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.