Kenyon R. Bonner joined the University of Virginia as Vice President and Chief Student Affairs Officer on Jan. 16, 2024. He previously served as Vice Provost for Student Affairs at the University of Pittsburgh, where he had served since 2004 in various, progressively responsible student support roles. During his 20-year career at Pitt, he gained experience as an Associate Director of Residence Life, Associate Dean of Students, and Director of Student Life. In 2015 he was promoted to Vice Provost and Dean of Students.

He leads a team of approximately 300 student affairs professionals to support undergraduate, graduate, and professional students through all aspects of the student experience.

At UVA VP Bonner oversees a diverse portfolio, including but not limited to Student Health and Wellness, Housing & Residence Life, the UVA Career Center, and areas reporting to the Dean of Students. He and his staff also support student self-governance, partnering with student leaders involved in the Honor Committee, the University Judiciary Committee, Student Council, class and school councils, and hundreds of other student-led organizations. He and his team work closely with faculty and staff in the University’s 12 schools and with academic partners across the UVA Grounds to ensure every UVA student has the support they need to thrive and get ready to shape the world.  

Bonner began his own college journey at Washington and Jefferson College where he played basketball, served as a student leader, and earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology and philosophy. He went on to receive his master’s degree in rehabilitation counseling at Kent State University and his doctorate in higher education management at the University of Pennsylvania. His research interests include practices that promote student success, retention and graduation, belonging, and college student mental health.

Bonner and his wife, Sylvana, have four children and he enjoys spending time with his family and listening to and creating music. He also loves walking the beautiful trails and paths around Grounds and in Charlottesville, and annual 5K and 10K runs. 

Also see the UVA Today article.