Ross, the Paul and Dorothea Torgersen Dean of the College of Engineering and special advisor to the president, will officially assume her new role on Jan. 10, 2026.
As chief academic officer, Clarke worked closely with President Tim Sands, college deans, administrators, and faculty across the institution to advance the university’s impact as a 21st century global land-grant institution.
President Tim Sands stressed that the entire Virginia Tech community — students, faculty, staff, board members, and alumni — want Virginia Tech’s mission and momentum to continue, and are all committed to diversity and an inclusive environment.