Dean Rachel Williams
RADFORD – On July 1, 2025, Rachel Williams, CVPA’s new dean, officially stepped into her new position, moving into her Artis Center office overlooking the courtyard.
Through the flurry of boxes, handshakes, faces, meetings (official and otherwise), Dean Williams is getting acclimated to her new Highlander home. Here are a few words from the new dean.
I am thrilled to serve as the next dean of CVPA. Since beginning my role, I have been continually impressed by the remarkable energy and creativity that defines our college during the summer months, thanks to our exceptional faculty and talented students from across the state. I am so lucky to follow in the footsteps of Tim Channel. His energy, knowledge, and dedication will be hard to match.
We recently concluded the Governor’s School program under the direction of Dr. Tay Keong Tan. For three intensive weeks, high-school students in the Arts and Humanities had the extraordinary opportunity to collaborate with our world-class faculty, creating work that truly showcased the caliber of Virginia’s remarkably intelligent and talented young people. It also showcases our exceptional facilities and programs at Radford.
Beyond the professional excitement of this new role, my husband and I have been warmly embraced by the Radford community. The genuine hospitality of the people here, combined with the natural beauty of this region, has made our transition feel like coming home.
As we prepare for the fall semester, our dedicated chairs and staff are working diligently to ensure everything is in place for what promises to be an exceptional year. The anticipation is building, and I am eager to see the innovative projects and performances our students will bring to life.
Radford University
