Mark McKinney has been named dean of the College of Computer and Information Technology at St. Petersburg College in Florida. Most recently, he served as associate dean for academic affairs and retention services at Pasco-Hernando State College in Florida. As a professor, he has taught numerous courses on computer information systems, cybersecurity, business, and healthcare administration.
Dr. McKinney earned his doctorate in educational leadership from the University of New England.
Kimberly S. Smith has been appointed vice president of student success and dean of the college at Lincoln University of Pennsylvania. With over 25 years of higher education experience, her career has focused on academic engagement, retention, and student development,. Most recently, she was associate vice president for student success initiatives at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University.
Dr. Smith holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Richmond in Virginia, a master’s degree in higher education and student affairs from Radford University in Virginia, and a doctorate in educational policy studies from Virginia Tech.
Sophia Sotilleo has been appointed vice provost and dean of the Albin O. Kuhn Library and Gallery at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. Since 2022, she has served as dean of the Thurgood Marshall Library at Bowie State University in Maryland. Her scholarship focuses on embedded librarianship, particularly its intersections with access, advocacy, and leadership in higher education.
Sotilleo holds a bachelor’s degree in business management from Lincoln University and a master’s degree in library and information sciences from Drexel University in Philadelphia.
Angela Branch-Vital has been named the inaugural dean of the School of Public and Allied Health at Prairie View A&M University in Texas. She has been serving as the school’s executive director since its inception in 2023. She previously served as chair of the university’s department of health and kinesiology. Her scholarship focuses on health disparities, community-based interventions, and student wellness.
Dr. Branch-Vital received her bachelor’s degree and master’s degree from Prairie View A&M University. She holds a Ph.D. in behavioral science and health promotion from the University of Texas School of Public Health.
