In February 2014, Melissa Lavitt assumed her role as Senior Associate Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs at IU Indianapolis. Lavitt came to IU Indianapolis from Boise State University, where she served as Dean and Professor of Social Work at the College of Social Sciences & Public Affairs. Her accomplishments included the launch of a PhD program in Public Policy, and creation of the university's first downtown location.
As Senior Associate Vice Chancellor, Lavitt is responsible for providing leadership and vision to faculty affairs at IU Indianapolis. By overseeing Faculty Enhancement, the Center for Teaching and Learning, the Office for Women, and Faculty Appointments and Advancement, she helps shape programs and events designed to develop faculty talent and leadership.
In her short time at IU Indianapolis, Lavitt has already made a big impression. She provided leadership for the newly developed Indiana Dual Career Network to support partner hiring, formed an Associate Faculty Advisory Board, and guided implementation of the new Mentoring Academy. In addition, Lavitt convened a Faculty Learning Community to develop promotion and tenure requirements for public scholars. Lavitt is a member of the advisory committee for IU Indianapolis Next Generation 2.0, a new leadership and professional development initiative for faculty and staff.
Lavitt received her Bachelor of Arts with honors at the University of Chicago, and her Master of Social Work and Ph.D. in Social Work from Tulane University.
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