Interim director named for Student Opportunities and Achievement Resources program

Virginia Tech’s Office for Inclusion and Diversity has named Ashley Offutt as interim director of the Student Opportunities and Achievement Resources (SOAR) program.

Previously, Offutt served as the senior associate director for the program. In this role, she continued to build on the coordination and support for marginalized, underrepresented, and underserved populations. Additionally, she deepened partnerships with Enrollment Management, Financial Aid, Undergraduate Academic Affairs, and Student Affairs. As interim director, Offutt will lead SOAR, continue the program's mission, manage day-to-day operations, and direct the Black College Institute.

As a first-generation student from Louisville, Kentucky, Offutt earned her Bachelor of Arts in communications with a minor in African and African American studies, and a Master of Arts in student personnel services in higher education with a particular focus in the relation and relationship building. Offutt believes that when passion and purpose come together, we can all win. Also, as supporters of intentional cultural change, we must hold ourselves responsible for the creation of those opportunities for the students that we serve.

Offutt has served as a compassionate and motivated diversity, inclusion, and belonging leader for 10-plus years, and holds extensive experience in student advocacy, safeguarding culture, and finding opportunities to build relationships with advocacy groups to drive educational and cultural diversity.