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Carla Panzella is the University of Pittsburgh’s new vice provost for student affairs, effective June 1. The former dean of students and associate vice provost has been serving as interim vice provost since January.
“I believe that Carla’s leadership in this role will continue to be just what is needed for Student Affairs as they continue to build a vibrant, nurturing and inclusive environment for students at Pitt, and as she carries on her strong commitment to championing student engagement in shared governance,” Provost and Senior Vice Chancellor Joseph McCarthy wrote in Wednesday’s announcement.
As associate vice provost and dean of students, Panzella served as liaison to the Office of the Provost, supporting its academic team with a focus on maximizing the impact of student success programs for underrepresented first-generation and Pell Grant-eligible students while also supporting graduate and professional students.
Alongside the Provost’s data analytics team, she led assessment efforts designed to collect and analyze qualitative data to augment survey data and provide a holistic understanding of the student experience. Panzella was also integral in implementing a reorganization to create departments, programs and services across the Division of Student Affairs.
“Student-centered work is at the forefront of her portfolio,” said McCarthy.
A leader of innovative co-curricular social-educational programs, activities and services that promote student well-being, sense of belonging, engagement and diverse learning experiences, Panzella is also responsible for strategic direction and management of the division’s leadership teams in student experience, student community and belonging, student wellness, student engagement and professional development.
Panzella brings more than 20 years of student affairs experience to her new role. Prior to joining Pitt, she was the senior student affairs officer serving as the associate vice president for student life and dean of students at Salem State University. She also taught psychology courses at previous institutions and currently teaches in the School of Education.
Panzella holds a PhD in higher education from Seton Hall University, where she completed her dissertation research on postsecondary pathways for low-income Black and Latino students. She also earned an MA in organizational psychology and leadership from the Teachers College of Columbia University and a BS in psychology from Saint Peter’s University.
Lorraine Craven, assistant dean for student experience, will serve as Pitt’s interim dean of students. Craven has amassed an 18-year career in higher education, including efforts in both student affairs and enrollment management. Notably, she has served as chief student affairs officer for Penn State Greater Allegheny.
— Nick France, photography by Aimee Obidzinski