Virginia R. Cassidy

Virginia R. Cassidy, the vice provost for academic planning and development, works at the intersection of internal program aspirations and external approval processes, accrediting bodies and demands for accountability. That university programs are usually approved and accreditation visits are usually successful owes much to Virginia's knowledge of external processes, thorough preparation, excellent advice and diplomatic communication. She chairs the University Assessment Panel, serves as the university's liaison to the Higher Learning Commission and the Illinois Board of Higher Education, and often acts as the university spokesperson when accrediting groups visit campus. Virginia's patience, participatory management style, obvious commitment to the university and knowledge of issues affecting higher education have been recognized by colleagues on campus and higher education officials across the state. That she is also a generous mentor of both students and staff makes her a role model for anyone pursuing a career in administration.