Lora Bailey has been named provost and vice president for academic affairs at the University of the Virgin Islands. In this role, she will serve as the institution’s chief academic officer, overseeing the university’s six schools and colleges, enrollment management, and athletics.
Dr. Bailey comes to the University of the Virgin Islands with more than 25 years of higher education experience. Most recently, she served as the director for research development for Virginia State University. Prior to that, she was executive director for licensure and accreditation at Virginia Commonwealth University. She has previously taught and held leadership positions at the University of South Carolina, Auburn University in Alabama, New Mexico Highlands University, and Indiana University Northwest.
As a scholar, Dr. Bailey has conducted extensive research on early childhood education and STEM education. Across her career, she has secured over $7 million to fund her own research and trained dozens of graduate students and junior faculty members. She has also served on the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation.
“I look forward to meeting our alumni and supporters, listening to their stories, and learning how their UVI experience shaped their lives,” said Dr. Bailey. “As we grow and evolve, their insights and engagement will be vital in ensuring we remain rooted in service while advancing academic excellence.”
A three-time graduate of Auburn University, Dr. Bailey holds a bachelor’s degree in business finance, a master’s degree in teaching, and a Ph.D. in curriculum and instruction.