Eldridge Named Vice Chancellor for Development

Claire Eldridge, a fundraising professional with more than two decades of experience in higher education, has been named Vice Chancellor for Development and College Relations at The University of Virginia's College at Wise, Chancellor Steven Kaplan announced Monday.

"I am delighted that the College was able to attract a Vice Chancellor for Development and College Relations with Claire Eldridge's exceptional level of ability, experience, and enthusiasm for student success," Chancellor Kaplan said. "I am confident she will be a great asset to this institution."

Eldridge, who was selected following an extensive national search process, will begin her work at UVa-Wise in mid-December. She will fill the vacancy left by the May departure of Brent Kennedy, who now heads the Wellmont Foundation in Kingsport, Tenn.

"UVa-Wise has a proud history and a wonderful future before it," Eldridge said. "I am excited about working with the Development and College Relations staff and about our forthcoming efforts to help implement Chancellor Kaplan's vision for the College."

Eldridge currently serves as Vice Chancellor for Advancement and External Affairs at Western Carolina University, a position she has held since 1997. At Western, Eldridge managed alumni affairs and development, public relations and public information, and regional economic development and outreach programs. She also served as the institution's federal and state legislative liaison.

During her tenure, Eldridge was responsible for building new fund raising and advancement programs to increase Western's visibility. She successfully organized a 12-county grass roots campaign to help ensure passage of North Carolina's $3.1 billion Public Higher Education Bond Referendum, from which Western realized $98.4 million for campus renovations and construction.

Eldridge came to Western Carolina from the University of Tennessee, where she was director of development for the College of Arts and Sciences from 1988 until 1997. Before moving to UT, Eldridge served for 12 years as director of information and services and planning at Roane State Community College.

A native of Rye, New York, Eldridge completed her undergraduate education at Connecticut College and her master's degree at Boston College. She earned her doctoral degree in higher education leadership from the University of Tennessee.

Listed among the nation's top ten public liberal arts colleges, The University of Virginia's College at Wise enrolls 1,550 students.