Cynthia Smith Forrest has been named the vice president of student affairs and dean of students at the University of New England (UNE). She assumed her new duties on January 15. Forrest took over the role that was held by Barbara J. Hazard for 26 years before her retirement last December.

Previously, Forrest was the CEO of a higher education consulting firm, Cynthia Smith Forrest and Associates Inc. She also recently served as a faculty member at Bay Path and Lasell Colleges.

Forrest has more than 30 years of higher education administrative experience. She served as dean of student services from 1982 to 2003 at Framingham State College in Framingham, Mass. Prior to that, she was the director of resident student development and special services from 1974 to 1982 at the University of South Carolina.

Forrest received her bachelor's degree in elementary education and her master's degree in counselor education, with a focus on student personnel services, from the University of South Carolina. She then earned a master's degree in administration, planning and social policy and and an EdD in administration, planning, and social policy from Harvard University.

In addition, Forrest has served in numerous leadership roles in the higher education community, including the NASPA, the American College Personnel Association, and the American Council on Education’s Office of Women Leaders in Higher Education National Network Board.

Provost Jacque Carter said, “We are delighted Dr. Forrest will be joining the UNE community; and I encourage everyone to welcome her to the UNE family.”