Norrine Bailey Spencer honored with emeritus status

Norrine Bailey Spencer

Norrine Bailey Spencer

BLACKSBURG, Va., Aug. 29, 2008 – Norrine Bailey Spencer, of Blacksburg, associate provost and director of undergraduate admissions at Virginia Tech, was conferred the "associate provost and director emerita" title by the Virginia Tech Board of Visitors during the board's quarterly meeting on June 20.

The title of emeritus may be conferred on retired professors and associate professors, administrative officers, librarians, and exceptional staff members who have given exemplary service to the university and who are recommended to the board of visitors by Virginia Tech President Charles W. Steger. Nominated individuals who are approved by the board of visitors receive an emeritus certificate from the university.

A member of the Virginia Tech community for 25 years, Spencer previously worked in the Pamplin College of Business. For two decades, first as assistant dean and then as associate dean, she was responsible for the academic programs of undergraduate students enrolled in seven majors and six minors in the Pamplin College. Under her leadership, a freshman-sophomore advising center was created, a job development and career services program was launched, and new initiatives with the Virginia Community College System were inaugurated. Spencer also taught hundreds of students in the Introduction to Business course.

Named associate provost and director of undergraduate admissions for the university in 2004, Spencer brought a collaborative and data-driven approach to undergraduate recruitment. Her leadership helped increase the number and quality of applicants, assured the integrity and efficiency of the process, and provided more responsive services to applicants and their families.

Spencer’s service on committees and commissions at Virginia Tech, included many years of involvement with academic appeals, athletics, transfer students, and recruitment of underrepresented students. She also served on the executive board of the Virginia Network, providing leadership and continuity for this organization committed to the advancement of women in higher education administration in Virginia.

She received her bachelor’s degree from Susquehanna University, a master’s degree from Syracuse University, and a doctorate from Virginia Tech.