Frances Keene named vice president for Student Affairs

Frances Keene has been named vice president for Student Affairs after serving as interim in the position since July 2022. She will continue to lead a division known for facilitating one of the most robust and comprehensive student life experiences in the country.

Student Affairs at Virginia Tech oversees more than 3,000 faculty, staff, and student employees, over 20 departments, and a number of critical student life programs — including dining and residential life, student organizations, counseling, health and well-being, international student services, student conduct, and learning partnerships.

“Frances brings extensive knowledge and experience to the leadership of Student Affairs and an unwavering dedication to the advocacy, success, and welfare of all Virginia Tech students,” said Executive Vice President and Provost Cyril Clarke. “Her commitment to providing students with diverse and dynamic campus life experiences, co-curricular programs, and support services is critical to Virginia Tech achieving its strategic goals and fulfilling its land grant mission. I look forward to continuing our work together on behalf of our students and their success.”

“I am tremendously honored to serve as Virginia Tech's vice president for Student Affairs," said Keene. "I am committed to working with my colleagues to advance our Aspirations for Student Learning, and we will continue to strive collectively to do whatever it takes to support the individual success of every student.”

During her tenue as interim vice president, Keene utilized her considerable background in student affairs to navigate the division’s strategic priorities and programmatic efforts. She deeply values her work with students and educators who prioritize student learning and development in a residential context. As a 2016 recipient of the Aspire! Award recognizing her commitment to embracing Ut Prosim (That I May Serve) as a way of life, Keene was honored for her exemplary work in the community and her spirit of service.

“Frances is a valued member of our senior leadership team and has been an advocate for our students for two decades,” said Virginia Tech President Tim Sands. “Her depth of experience and spirit of service will advance our commitment to support the success of every Virginia Tech student.”

Keene began her career at Virginia Tech in 2002 as a victim services adjudication coordinator in what was then called the Office of Judicial Affairs. She later became the director of student conduct, a position she held until 2012. Keene also held a part-time position in the university’s Long Range Planning Office as an assistant director, which concluded in 2012. From 2012 to 2020, she served as chief of operations for the senior associate vice president for Student Affairs and then went on to serve as assistant vice president and chief of staff to the vice president for Student Affairs from 2020-2022.

"I look forward in continuing to lead Student Affairs as we have a strong commitment to  promoting student success and well-being for our students," said Keene. "Our division has a strong focus on holistic development and collaborative partnerships that deliver superior service to, and care for, students in the spirit of Ut Prosim (That I May Serve)."

Keene earned a Ph.D. in higher education from Virginia Tech, a master’s degree in counselor education from the University of Virginia, and a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the College of William & Mary.