Springfield College Names Dr. Calvin R. Hill Vice President for Inclusion and Community Engagement

Dr. Calvin R. Hill has been named vice president for inclusion and community engagement at Springfield College, following a national search. Springfield College President Dr. Mary-Beth Cooper made the announcement. 

With more than 20 years of experience as a faculty member in higher education, Hill has most recently served as the university diversity and inclusion officer for the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, Minn. Prior, Hill developed strong ties to higher education in Massachusetts working as assistant to the president and director of the Office of Diversity, Inclusion and Equal Opportunity at Worcester State University; serving as associate provost and chief diversity officer for MGH Institute of Health Professions in Boston; and prospering as assistant dean and director of diversity programs at Worcester Polytechnic Institute. Hill’s experience has included a commitment to providing equal access to educational opportunities for underrepresented populations, and to lead institutional compliance efforts around the ADA, Title VI, Title VII, VOWA, the Campus SaVE Act, and Title IX.

“I am pleased to announce that Calvin will be joining the leadership team at Springfield College,” said Cooper. "Springfield College recognizes that a diverse and inclusive campus community where different perspectives are recognized and celebrated is an integral part of educating students in the 21st century. In addition, we are proud of our collaborative partnerships with many community organizations, and we are committed to being a strong advocate for greater Springfield. Calvin’s experience in both academic and professional settings will enhance the College’s goals and vision in these areas moving forward.”

Reporting directly to the president, Hill will work closely with a broad range of students, faculty, staff, and community constitutes to develop Springfield College as a model for diversity and inclusion in higher education. Striving to connect the College’s intellectual and cultural resources to area communities, Hill’s leadership will support the recruitment and retention of a diverse student population. In addition, Hill will monitor, document, and facilitate the College’s integrated governmental and community relations and serve as a liaison to local, state, and federal government agencies.

“I am thrilled to join the Springfield College community in the position of vice president for inclusion and community engagement,” said Hill. “From what I have seen and heard, Springfield College is a special place, and I look forward to working with its dedicated faculty, staff, students and community partners to not only shape, but to also gain a better understanding of the world around us.”

Hill has a doctor of philosophy in political science from Howard University, a Master of Science in student personnel administration from Emporia State University, and a Bachelor of Arts in history-political science from Bethany College.

Founded in 1885, Springfield College is known worldwide for the guiding principles of its Humanics philosophy—educating students in spirit, mind and body for leadership in service to others. With its foundation of academic excellence and rich athletic heritage, Springfield College prepares students with real-world leadership skills for careers that transform lives and communities. The college offers a range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs in the fields of health sciences, human and social services, sport management and movement studies, education, business, and the arts and sciences. It also offers doctoral programs in physical education, physical therapy, and counseling psychology. The college is ranked in the 2015 edition of “Best Colleges” in the top tier of “Best Regional Universities – North Region” by U.S.News and World Report, and is designated as a premier Leadership Development Center by the YMCA of the USA. More than 5,000 traditional, nontraditional and international students study at its main campus in Springfield, Mass., and at its School of Human Services campuses across the country.