Simmons University is pleased to announce that after a comprehensive, nationwide search, Dr. Renique Kersh has been selected to serve as vice president of student affairs.
Dr. Kersh is a passionate and dedicated leader with a strong understanding of the many factors that impact and influence the student experience. An expert in the areas of student development, retention and success, Dr. Kersh currently serves as associate vice provost for student engagement and success at Northern Illinois University. In this role, she ensures a high-quality experience for students and provides leadership and strategic vision on a host of critical student-related initiatives.
Among her many accomplishments is the reorganization of Northern Illinois University’s Office of Undergraduate Studies to better align with strategic enrollment management goals. She also led efforts for the development and deployment of an emergency fund to help financially support students in need, along with serving as a member of the leadership team responsible for the deployment of federal CARES funding to support academic recovery and technology needs.
In addition, Dr. Kersh has significant experience in leadership development and has the unique ability to bridge academic and student life. She is also a strong champion for diversity, equity, and inclusion, providing leadership on initiatives related to developing strategies to address equity gaps and barriers to student success. Her efforts have led to increased student retention and the reduction of equity gaps for first-generation and underserved students. Dr. Kersh’s expertise will help Simmons advance its ambitious goal of becoming one of the most inclusive campuses in New England.
Prior to her work at Northern Illinois University, Dr. Kersh served as the assistant director of leadership programs at North Central College, where she taught courses on leadership, student development and retention. She has also served in various roles at Johns Hopkins University, the University of Illinois, the University of Maryland, and the University of Missouri Kansas City.
“I am more than thrilled to join the Simmons University family and I look forward to leading the student affairs division and partnering with key campus stakeholders to enhance the student experience,” says Dr. Kersh.
Dr. Kersh will begin her new role as vice president of student affairs on February 15, 2021.