About President Shushok

Dr. Frank Shushok Jr. serves as the 12th president of Roanoke College in Salem, Virginia. Since joining Roanoke in 2022, he has worked in partnership with the Board of Trustees, faculty, staff, students, alumni, and regional partners to position the College as an agile, innovative, and learner-centered institution for the 21st century.

Under President Shushok's leadership, the College launched Imagine Roanoke, a bold strategic plan that builds on nearly two centuries of tradition while embracing the needs of today’s learners. Two key imperatives include the creation of four transdisciplinary schools that promote integrated, careerconnected learning, and the transformation of Roanoke’s residential campus into a 21st-century learning laboratory that fosters belonging, leadership, character, and purpose. A signature initiative of the plan is Roanoke College–Roanoke Valley (RC-RV), a partner endeavor to expand access to continuing education, workforce development, and community-based learning. RC-RV deepens collaboration with local industry, K–12 schools, community colleges, and government agencies to align education with regional economic needs. By bridging campus and community, it fosters shared solutions, grows local talent, and strengthens the region’s future.

A small college on the move, Roanoke College has recently launched new undergraduate and graduate programs; begun construction on the McConnon Discovery Center—a cutting edge science facility; and expanded access and opportunities for learners through partnerships with regional community colleges and graduate programs at colleges and universities across the Commonwealth. It has also revitalized student life, school spirit, and community engagement through new co-curricular offerings, including the return of football to Roanoke after 82 years, along with new marching band and competitive cheer programs.

President Shushok came to Roanoke College with over 30 years experience in higher education. Immediately prior to coming to Roanoke College, Shushok served 13 years in several executive roles at Virginia Tech, including Vice President of Student Affairs. He was also a tenured professor in the College of Agriculture and Life Science. Early on he served at his alma mater, Baylor University, in several capacities, including dean for student learning and engagement, associate dean for Campus Living and Learning, and was a faculty member and program director for the graduate program in Higher Education and Student Affairs.

Shushok holds a B.S. in history from Baylor University, an M.A. in higher education and student affairs administration from The Ohio State University, and a Ph.D. in higher education policy, planning and analysis from the University of Maryland, College Park. Shushok and his spouse, Kelly, are high school sweethearts who have been married for over 30 years. Reverend Shushok has served more than 20 years in ministry, most recently as pastor at “edges,” a progressive United Methodist community in Blacksburg. Together, they have three adult children and two lovable dogs, Maple, and her daughter, Magnolia who are dedicated Maroons!