Michael Webb named assistant dean for advancement for College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences

Michael Webb jumped out of his car to lend a helping hand.

He’d been driving down Prices Fork Road on a sunny March afternoon when a biker lost control of his motorcycle.

Webb immediately pulled to the shoulder to check on the man. They sat and talked for a while before parting ways with the motorcyclist reassuring Webb that he was OK to continue riding to his destination.

When recalling the encounter, Webb said he didn’t hesitate to help. “I just did what anyone would have done.”

That was his second day as a Hokie.

Webb officially joined the College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences March 1 as the new assistant dean for advancement. As the leader of the college’s advancement team, Webb will spearhead the college’s development, alumni relations, and communications operations. 

His primary goals include increasing philanthropic support, boosting alumni engagement, and raising the college’s profile. Webb said he was drawn to the college because of Dean Laura Belmonte’s vision to leverage our shared humanity to achieve meaningful solutions to complex problems.

Webb will work closely with Belmonte and the college’s department, school, and center leaders, to pursue the college's campaign priorities.

“The College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences is doing critical work at the intersection of humanities and technology,” said Webb. “We’re producing graduates who can think big and solve complex problems in Southwest Virginia as well as around the world. I am excited to work with alumni and donors who want to support the teaching, research, and service accomplished within the college.”

Webb carries a wealth of experience in higher education.

He joined Virginia Tech from the University of Tennessee, where he served as the director of advancement for the College of Arts and Sciences and supported the college to record giving. He previously held positions at East Tennessee State University and King University, where he demonstrated a consistent track record of success in development and alumni relations.

At East Tennessee State, he played a key role in building philanthropic support for a new arts center. His experience also includes serving as the director of alumni relations at King University.

"We are thrilled to welcome Michael and his passion for service and leadership,” said Belmonte. “His dedication to our college's mission is clear, and I have no doubt that his strategic knowledge and collaborative approach will help propel us to even greater heights."

Webb's commitment to service and philanthropy extends beyond his professional career, as evidenced by his involvement in community service and professional affiliations. He has volunteered with organizations such as Communities in Schools of the Appalachian Highlands and the International Bluegrass Music Association Foundation, where he serves on the board of directors and chairs the philanthropy committee. 

Webb is also an active member of professional associations including the Council for Advancement and Support of Education and the Association of Fundraising Professionals.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Webb is pursuing a Doctor of Education at East Tennessee State University. He earned his master’s degree in intelligence studies from American Military University. He’s also a graduate of King University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in political science and history.

Along with his work within the college, Webb will partner with university Advancement leaders to align the college’s strategy with the university’s mission and top priorities of increasing student access and affordability through Virginia Tech Advantage and achieving Virginia Tech Global Distinction, an initiative focused on the university’s commitment to elevating our international prominence and strengthening our capacity to act as a force for positive change.

“Our advancement team challenges our supporters to dream big about how their investments can impact Hokies here and help change the world,” said Webb. “I am excited to be a part of this community and to continue to support and enhance the College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences. The profound loyalty and support of Hokie alumni is contagious.”