HARRISONBURG, Va. (ROCKTOWN NOW) — Melinda Wood has been appointed Vice President for Enrollment Management at James Madison University.

She will succeed Donna Harper, who will retire in spring 2024 after a 47-year career at her alma mater that began shortly after earning her bachelor’s degree in 1977.

Wood served as JMU’s Associate Vice President for Access and Enrollment Management and Director of Admissions since July 2021. She also served on many university committees and working groups addressing issues such as academic standards, new student enrollment, records retention and data governance at JMU.

“I’m honored to carry on the work of enrollment management at JMU,” Wood said. “Through careful planning and strategy, I know our team will rise to the challenge to support the university’s strategic direction as we continue to promote a quality environment that fosters a successful transition to college through graduation.”

Wood previously served as interim dean of undergraduate admissions and director of admissions at Elon University. She earned a Master of Science degree from Liberty University and a Bachelor of Arts degree from Elon University.

In a release from JMU, President Jonathan Alger described Wood as an exceptional colleague and steward of the university.

“Melinda [Wood] is a steady and strong leader with years of service in higher education and she has proven herself numerous times, especially through critical moments of transitions and changes,” Alger said.

JMU Vice President of Student Affairs, Tim Miller, chaired the search committee for the Enrollment Manager VP position.

“I am excited to have Melinda [Wood], a proven leader and strategic thinker, continue the incredible work she and her team have accomplished on behalf of our students in enrollment management, and I know she will continue to effectively serve as the collaborative and innovative leader that she is,” Miller said.

The division Wood will oversee includes access and educational outreach, admissions, the Centennial Scholars program, The Reddix Center for First-Generation Students, financial aid and scholarships, university events and Valley Scholars.