Kenyon R. Bonner, the University of Virginia’s new vice president and chief student affairs officer, kicked off his tenure this week with some happy news for students.

“I am excited to announce that Cedric Rucker, interim senior associate vice president and dean of students, has accepted my offer to continue his interim appointment through the next academic year,” Bonner wrote in a letter to students. “Cedric’s continued service and valued perspectives will allow me adequate time to better understand our student experience and the needs of the Division of Student Affairs.”

Since assuming his interim role last fall, Rucker has become a familiar face at UVA, attending athletic events, hosting student groups in his pavilion and even holding pop-up student hours around Grounds.

Bonner, who came to UVA from the University of Pittsburgh, said extending Rucker’s tenure “will help inform our national recruitment, search and selection of UVA’s next dean of students. The search will begin this fall and will include student representatives.”

Bonner told students he is “proud to serve as your new vice president and chief student affairs officer. I am excited to introduce myself to the University of Virginia community and look forward to seeing and meeting you on Grounds.”

A former first-generation student, he said his motivation to serve a university community is grounded in his own college experience.

“As a first-generation Black student from Cleveland, I did not always feel like I belonged. This was unfortunate and the impetus to serve in higher education,” he said. “I have learned that each of you bring your own life story to UVA.”

Bonner said it is a “privilege to serve the UVA community and help you learn, grow, and optimistically, encourage your understanding of who you are, what you enjoy doing with your talents and interests, and how your experience at UVA can lead to meaningful work and service.”