Dr. Laura J. Treanor Inaugurated at Virginia Western
Dr. Laura J. Treanor has been officially inaugurated as the fifth president of Virginia Western Community College.
Updated on Sept. 26, 2026 in People
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Dr. Laura J. Treanor was formally inaugurated on September 25, 2026, during a ceremony at the Jefferson Center. She assumed the role of the fifth president of Virginia Western Community College, which is currently celebrating its 60th anniversary.
Why it matters
The appointment marks a new chapter for the institution as it navigates its seventh decade of service in the region. Dr. Treanor brings leadership experience from her previous tenure as provost and senior vice president at Vincennes University.
The college evaluated 61 candidates during its national search process to fill the presidency. Dr. Treanor is the fifth individual to lead the institution since its founding 60 years ago.
The players
Dr. Laura J. Treanor
She serves as the fifth president of Virginia Western Community College and previously worked as provost and senior vice president at Vincennes University.
Dr. David Doré
He is the official who administered the oath of office to the new president during the inauguration ceremony.
Virginia Western Community College
The institution is a higher education center based in Roanoke that is currently marking its 60th year of operation.
The details
The inauguration ceremony at the Jefferson Center featured the presentation of the Presidential Medallion and the administration of the oath of office by Dr. David Doré. Dr. Treanor, who holds degrees from Virginia Tech and Ohio State University, officially began her term on July 1, 2025.
Timeline
July 1, 2025: Dr. Laura J. Treanor began her tenure as president.
September 25, 2026: The official inauguration ceremony was held at the Jefferson Center.
Market Landscape
This leadership transition follows the established administrative search protocols used by the Virginia Community College System. The appointment positions the college to maintain its regional standing amidst broader shifts in the state's higher education sector.
The transition to new leadership may influence the institution's future academic programming and local community partnerships. Students and residents can expect the college to continue its mission under the guidance of the new administration.
The takeaway
Dr. Treanor begins her term as the college celebrates six decades of operation in the Roanoke area. Her leadership will now guide the long-term academic and administrative direction of the institution.
Further reading
For more information on local leadership and administrative changes, visit People.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WSET.
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