Curry School Names Patricia Lampkin its 2014 Distinguished Alumna

In recognition of Patricia Lampkin’s professional stature and exemplary career, the University of Virginia’s Curry School of Education Foundation has selected her to receive its 2014 Distinguished Alumna Award.

Lampkin has been U.Va.’s vice president and chief student affairs officer since 2002, providing guidance, counsel and services in all areas that support and enhance students’ academic experiences. She serves as a member of the president’s cabinet and advises the student-run University Judiciary Committee, Honor Committee and Student Council.

“I have come to know Pat Lampkin very well over the last several years, and I greatly admire her profound dedication to the students of this university during the course of her long service here,” U.Va. President Teresa Sullivan said. “Residing on the Lawn with our students, she is a great mentor and source of advice and personal counsel.”

Lampkin’s national reputation and acclaimed scholarship has established the University as a leader in the student affairs profession, said Brian Pusser, associate professor of education in the Curry School’s Center for the Study of Higher Education, where Lampkin has taught as an adjunct professor.

“Her talent and generosity as a mentor cannot be overstated, and a long list of professionals who learned at her side now carry her unmatched dedication to the well-being of students into colleges and universities throughout the country,” Pusser said.

“Pat Lampkin embodies every value we hold for Curry graduates,” said Robert C. Pianta, dean of the Curry School. “Her contributions to the public and community, her exceptional professionalism, her exemplary leadership and her compassion and dedication are each enough to deserve this award. That Pat’s career at U.Va. demonstrates each of these qualities at such a high level is simply remarkable. We are proud to claim her as one of our alumni and are grateful for her contributions to the students of this university.”

Her 35 years of service to the University began in 1979 when she was named assistant director for student services. She later became associate director for student services in 1984, assistant dean of students in 1985, associate dean of students in 1987 and associate vice president for student affairs in 1995, before being named vice president and chief student affairs officer in 2002.

Over the course of her career, Lampkin’s achievements have been recognized by numerous honors awarded both on Grounds and elsewhere. They include the IMP Society’s Distinguished Faculty Award, The Raven Award, The Elizabeth Zintl Leadership Award from the U.Va. Maxine Platzer Lynn Women’s Center, the Salve Dignitate Award from the University of Vermont, the Mother Clarissa Dillhoff Award for Distinguished Achievement in Mentoring from Marian University, the Gordon F. Rainey Jr. Award for Vigilance to the Student Experience from the Serpentine Society, and the Thomas Jefferson Award, the highest faculty award presented by the University.

Lampkin received her doctor of education degree from the Curry School of Education’s higher education administration program in 1986. She completed a master of education degree from the University of Vermont in 1978, and a bachelor of science degree from Marian University in 1976.

The Curry School Foundation Distinguished Alumni Award recognizes alumni who have made considerable professional contributions in their chosen career.

Lampkin will receive her award Oct. 23 at a Curry School of Education Foundation dinner.