Frank Shushok

Frank Shushok Jr. serves as the 12th president of Roanoke College in Salem, Virginia. Since joining Roanoke in 2022, he has worked in partnership with the Board of Trustees, faculty, staff, students, alumni, and regional partners to position the College as an agile, innovative, and learner-centered institution for the 21st century. Under President Shushok's leadership, the College launched Imagine Roanoke, a bold strategic plan that builds on nearly two centuries of tradition while embracing the needs of today’s learners. Two key imperatives include the creation of four transdisciplinary schools that promote integrated, career-connected learning and the transformation of Roanoke’s residential campus into a 21st-century learning laboratory that fosters belonging, leadership, character, and purpose. A signature initiative of the plan is Roanoke College–Roanoke Valley (RC-RV), a partner endeavor to expand access to continuing education, workforce development, and community-based learning. RC-RV deepens collaboration with local industry, K–12 schools, community colleges, and government agencies to align education with regional economic needs. By bridging campus and community, it fosters shared solutions, grows local talent, and strengthens the region’s future. A small college on the move, Roanoke College has recently launched new undergraduate and graduate programs; begun construction on the McConnon Discovery Center—a cutting-edge science facility; and expanded access and opportunities for learners through partnerships with regional community colleges and graduate programs at colleges and universities across the Commonwealth. It has also revitalized student life, school spirit, and community engagement through new co-curricular offerings, including the return of football to Roanoke after 82 years, as well as new marching band and competitive cheer programs.