UW Bothell names Sharon A. Jones
vice chancellor for academic affairs
BOTHELL, Washington — The University of Washington Bothell has named Sharon Andrea Jones as its new vice chancellor for academic affairs (VCAA), effective July 15.
Jones has been the dean of the University of Portland’s Shiley School of Engineering since 2011. During her tenure, the school experienced the largest growth in its history.
At UW Bothell, Jones will succeed Anita K. Krug, who has been serving as interim VCAA since August 2018, following the departure of Susan Jeffords, who had held the post since 2007.
“During the entire search process — and particularly during the campus visit — it became clear that the UW Bothell community fully embraces its mission to provide access and opportunity for a diverse range of students within a premiere interdisciplinary and student-centered environment,” Jones said. “For me, this is an opportunity of a lifetime to serve the campus and the state. I thank Chancellor Wolf Yeigh for bringing me on board.”
One of three vice chancellors, the VCAA drives the development and implementation of academic policies and procedures and leads efforts to enhance the campus culture for faculty and staff. Jones will be the chief academic officer on campus, overseeing UW Bothell’s five schools: Business, Educational Studies, Interdisciplinary Arts & Sciences, Nursing & Health Studies, and Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics. She will also administer numerous student-success programs and offices on campus.
“I am looking forward to Sharon leading this work as we embark on our 30th year,” said Chancellor Wolf Yeigh. “A new strategic plan is on the horizon and she has the experience to help guide the way.”
Prior to her position at University of Portland, Jones served as a professor and director of engineering at Lafayette College, a private liberal arts college based in Easton, Pennsylvania.
Jones received a doctorate from Carnegie Mellon University in engineering and public policy, and a bachelor’s degree from Columbia University in civil engineering. She is currently the principal investigator for a National Science Foundation project focused on retention of at-risk students in computer science and engineering. Jones also has worked as a professional engineer.
Jones was selected after a search led by Phil Akers, UW Bothell’s vice chancellor for advancement and external relations; and Gowri Shankar, an associate professor of finance and chair of the General Faculty Organization.
About UW Bothell
UW Bothell’s commitment to increasing access to a UW education extends well beyond admissions. It also includes offering evening, offsite, online, hybrid and certificate programs that help make it possible for more students to pursue higher education. Known for the diversity of its student population — as measured by a variety of factors — UW Bothell has also been recognized for innovations in academic programming and support services designed to help students graduate on time and debt free. As part of its commitment to excellence, UW Bothell places particular value on diversity, community engagement and sustainability.
