After concluding her term as associate dean for academic affairs for the Graduate School, Terrah Akard will return to her role as professor of nursing in the School of Nursing. Her tenure has been transformative and defined by a commitment to digital innovation and academic leadership. Akard played a pivotal role in establishing the degree audit system and has been a voice for best practices in academic affairs in doctoral education at Vanderbilt.
“Dr. Akard’s willingness to embrace innovation in her role, always with enthusiasm and thoughtfulness, sets a standard for leadership,” said André Christie-Mizell, vice provost for graduate education and dean of the Graduate School. “Her reputation as a trusted partner within the Graduate School and across Vanderbilt is a testament to her character and the influence she leaves behind.”
In her role, Akard oversaw all academic regulations in the Graduate School, supported students and faculty, provided oversight for the Honor Council and helped redesign the Doctoral Student Experience Survey.
Hillyer and Page-McCaw named associate deans for academic affairs
Julián Hillyer, Centennial Professor of Biological Sciences, and Andrea Page-McCaw, Stevenson Chair and professor of cell and developmental biology, have been named associate deans for academic affairs. Both served in their respective departments as director of graduate studies.
As associate deans, Hillyer and Page-McCaw will oversee activities related to the curricula for graduate degree programs, including course catalogs, academic regulations, degree requirements and academic program reviews.
These roles are integral to guiding the Graduate School’s 59 academic programs and upholding Vanderbilt’s standards of excellence and innovation.
“I am excited to bring Julián and Andrea into these roles,” Christie-Mizell said. “Their contributions to promoting research innovation and academic excellence will be invaluable to our graduate education mission.”
With these changes, the Graduate School reaffirms its commitment to enhancing student success, supporting faculty mentors and training the next generation of leaders and scholars.
