Hobart and William Smith Colleges has tapped a prominent diversity officer, who happens to be one of their alumni, to lead their institution as the next college president.
Dr. Gregory J. Vincent, who is currently vice president for diversity and community engagement and a professor in the School of Law at the University of Texas at Austin (UT), will begin his post on July 16.
“Though it is very difficult to see such an accomplished leader depart our university, I know that Dr. Vincent will flourish in his new role and continue to transform the lives of students — just as he has done for so many years at UT,” said Dr. Gregory L. Fenves, president of UT.
“Throughout his tenure, Dr. Vincent developed innovative approaches to recruit and support diverse faculty members and graduate students. He has strengthened academic support for students of color, students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds and first-generation college students.”
Vincent becomes the colleges’ first Black president.
Fenves said that, under Vincent’s leadership, UT released the university Diversity and Inclusion Action Plan last month, “which serves as a blueprint for how we can continue to create a more equitable and inclusive experience for students, faculty members and staff members of all backgrounds.”
He also lauded Vincent for his efforts in the Fisher v. University of Texas case in 2015, which challenged the use of affirmative action in college admissions.
