JMU appoints Wood vice president of enrollment management

After a national search, Melinda Wood has been appointed vice president for enrollment management at James Madison University. The division 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.

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

Wood has served as the associate vice president for access and enrollment management and director of admissions since July 2021. She previously served as interim dean of undergraduate admissions and director of admissions at Elon University.

Wood has 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.

She earned a master of science degree from Liberty University and a bachelor of arts degree from Elon University.

“Melinda 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. I am proud and honored to have Melinda serve in this role — she is an exceptional colleague and steward of our proud university, and I congratulate her on her appointment,” said JMU President Jonathan Alger.

“I am excited to have Melinda, 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,” said Tim Miller, search committee chair and vice president of the Student Affairs Division.

“I’m honored to carry on the work of enrollment management at JMU. 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 said.