About The Vice President & Student Affairs
The Division of Student Affairs contributes to the educational mission of Tennessee
Tech by providing premier student support programs and services. As a result, our
students will fulfill their personal and educational objectives and aspirations.
Dr. Cynthia Polk-Johnson, affectionately known by students as “Dr. PoJo,” is a passionate educator who believes in the transformation of students’ lives, and even future generations, through education. She has served in higher education over 20 years at many different types of institutions and has always maintained a student-centered approach to her work. Her direct experience in student affairs ranges from enrollment and recruitment, to multicultural affairs, to the dean of students office. At Tennessee Tech, she oversees the following areas within the Division of Student Affairs: Accessible Education Center, Center for Student Engagement, Center for Counseling and Mental Health Wellness, Dean of Students, Eagle Card, Health Services, Leona Lusk Officer Black Cultural Center and Intercultural Affairs, Marc L. Burnett Student Recreation and Fitness Center, Roaden University Center, University Housing and Residential Life, and University Police. She values working alongside colleagues within student affairs and building meaningful partnerships across campus to provide optimal student support services and programs. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology and Master of Science degree in Student Affairs in Higher Education from Mississippi State University as well as a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Leadership for Higher Education from Capella University. Outside of work she enjoys spending quality time with her husband and two daughters.
Mission
The Division of Student Affairs exists to provide holistic student development by delivering transformative student experiences through programs and services that are accessible, inclusive, and collaborative to encourage, engage, and inspire students to reach their full potential.
Vision
The Division of Student Affairs will serve as a model of excellence by cultivating a “students first” campus environment that fosters relevant, impactful, and intentional student experiences.
Core Values
- Advocacy
- Connection and Sense of Belonging
- Diversity and Inclusion
- Engagement
- Wellness and Well-Being
Our Commitment
- Recognizing the uniqueness of each student and that student's individual needs
- Developing student self-responsibility and personal investment in their growth
- Encouraging collaborative efforts in serving students
Developing programs which are nationally recognized as models of excellence - Optimizing the learning experience in and out of the classroom for each student through positive quality programs and services
- Providing opportunities to participate in a variety of recreational programs, sports and fitness activities which satisfy the diverse needs of faculty, staff and students
The Division of Student Affairs is also a central source of information about University policies and procedures which affect students.
