Melissa Irvin

Dr. Melissa Irvin serves as Senior Associate Vice Provost for Student Success in the Division of Student Success at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. A recognized leader in student success, advising innovation, and higher education technology, she leads strategic initiatives that improve the student experience, strengthen institutional effectiveness, and help every Volunteer navigate a successful path from enrollment to graduation.

As senior associate vice provost for student success, Dr. Irvin leads transformational projects that strengthen the student experience through innovation, technology, and data-informed decision-making. Her work centers upon designing systems and initiatives that improve how students connect with resources, navigate academic pathways, and achieve their goals.

With more than two decades of experience in higher education, Melissa has built a career at the intersection of student success, advising, technology, and organizational change. Prior to her current role, she served in leadership positions spanning academic advising, student support services, and strategic planning. Throughout her career, she has been recognized for her ability to bring together cross-functional teams, align institutional priorities, and implement innovative solutions that improve outcomes for students and support the work of faculty and staff.

At UT, Melissa has played a key role in advancing several institution-wide initiatives designed to enhance student success and retention. She led the implementation of the Salesforce Student Success Hub, creating a more connected and coordinated experience for students and campus partners. She also assisted the development of University Exploratory Pathways, an innovative approach that supports students as they explore majors and career interests while maintaining academic momentum. Her work reflects a commitment to removing barriers, leveraging technology strategically, and creating scalable systems that help students thrive.

Melissa is an active scholar and thought leader in higher education, with publications appearing in EDUCAUSE Review, IGI Global, and The EvoLLLution. She frequently presents at national conferences and professional associations, including the Association of American Colleges & Universities (AAC&U), NACADA: The Global Community for Academic Advising, and NASPA. Her expertise in student success, advising innovation, and institutional transformation has earned recognition across the higher education community, including participation in the Maxine Smith Fellows Program, a leadership development initiative for higher education professionals.

At the heart of Melissa’s work is a belief that every Volunteer deserves the opportunity to thrive. She is passionate about creating systems, partnerships, and experiences that help students realize their potential and achieve success during their time at the university and beyond.

Education: EdD in higher education leadership and policy, Vanderbilt University Peabody College of Education and Human Development; MEd in administration and supervision, Middle Tennessee State University; bachelor’s in psychology, Duke University.

CliftonStrengths: Deliberative, Analytical, Learner, Intellection, Relator.