News
Roberts Wesleyan University Appoints Dr. Marlene Collins-Blair Vice President of Academic Affairs and Chief Academic Officer
Roberts Wesleyan University is proud to announce Dr. Marlene Collins-Blair has been appointed Vice President of Academic Affairs and Chief Academic Officer, effective May 10. Dr. Collins-Blair began her career at Roberts Wesleyan University as assistant chief academic officer and assistant vice president for academic affairs in January 2023. With over 22 years of experience in higher education, she is deeply committed to learner-centered education and academic leadership that advances access, excellence, and transformative learning across both traditional and non-traditional environments.
“Dr. Marlene Collins-Blair was appointed Interim Vice President of Academic Affairs and Chief Academic Officer one year ago. Since then, she has navigated the first steps toward rebalancing our academic portfolio, established partnerships for key strategic initiatives, and reaffirmed our mission as a Christ-centered institution,” said President Rupert A. Hayles Jr., Ph.D. “Based on the strong feedback from our recent re-accreditation process and a 360 review process, and considering the outstanding leadership of Dr. Collins-Blair since her arrival at Roberts, I am pleased to announce her permanent appointment as Chief Academic Officer and Vice President for Academic Affairs.”
As Chief Academic Officer, Dr. Collins-Blair will oversee the institution’s academic programs, ensuring their continued quality and effectiveness. In addition, she will be responsible for strategic planning, accreditation, and faculty recruitment and development. Dr. Collins-Blair will also lead initiatives aimed at enhancing student success, fostering academic innovation, and ensuring alignment with institutional goals. She will collaborate closely with academic and university leadership on enrollment, retention, and institutional partnerships, while maintaining a strong focus on academic excellence and mission-driven outcomes
Dr. Collins-Blair holds a Ph.D. in Spanish from the University of the West Indies, Mona Campus, Jamaica. She earned a Digital Badge and Certificate of Mastery of Leadership in Online Education from the Online Learning Consortium, a Diploma in Interpreting and Translating from Escuela de Traductores é Intérpretes Sampere in Madrid, Spain and a Certificate of Proficiency in Spanish Language and Culture from Escuela Oficial de Idiomas in Madrid, Spain. A GMI-certified mentor, she provides guidance and support to underserved college students and early-career professionals globally, helping them navigate their career development and achieve long-term success. She resides in Dansville with her family.
