Tiffany Franks

Dr. Tiffany McKillip Franks became President of Averett University in 2008, the first woman to hold the post. During her tenure, the University has realized record enrollments in the traditional undergraduate program and is in its second comprehensive capital campaign, securing almost $40 million.Under her helm, the University has launched major new academic programs on both undergraduate and graduate levels, with nine new programs added in intercollegiate athletics.Averett established a Center for Community Engagement and Career Competitiveness that improves students’ lives while contributing to the surrounding community. Also, the University now operates the Danville Regional Airport, establishing AU Aviation Services as a complement to Averett’s signature aeronautics program. Averett also secured the University’s inaugural Chief Entrepreneurship and Innovation Officer.With 35 years of senior-level administrative experience in higher education, Franks’ leadership style and problem-solving expertise have led her through executive positions in every aspect of higher education. Prior to taking the helm at Averett, she served as the Executive Vice President at Greensboro College in North Carolina.Franks earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Ohio Dominican University; a Master ofScience degree in Education from The Ohio State University; and a doctorate in Higher Education Management from the University of Pennsylvania.