Ms. Carolyn Russell
Vice-President Students
The primary focus of the Vice-President Students portfolio lies in supporting VIU students' academic achievements, mental health, personal development, and global connectedness throughout their entire educational journey with VIU. While implementing strategies to increase enrollment and support the persistence of students at VIU.
The Vice-President Students position is a result of internal restructuring of several departments to create a new portfolio including the Office of Future Students, Office of the Registrar, Division of Student Affairs, and VIU International. This position aligns with VIU’s commitment to students and the evolving expectations of higher education institutions to provide comprehensive support systems that address the varied and complex needs of today's student body. The VP Students also leads the delivery of VIU’s Strategic Enrolment Management Plan, which includes goals and strategies for student recruitment, retention, and success.
Carolyn joined VIU in 2022 as the Associate Vice-President International Education and brought with her extensive experience in recruitment, student affairs and international education from her various roles at the University of Northern British Columbia and the University of Victoria. During her time with VIU she has been a champion of organizational change and strategic enrolment management, leading the development of VIU’s first Strategic Enrolment Management Plan. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in International Studies from the University of Northern British Columbia and a Master of Public Administration from the University of Victoria.
When not working, Carolyn enjoys traveling to new places and spending time outdoors with her husband and daughter.