Dr. Susan R. Wente
On July 1, 2021, Wake Forest welcomed its 14th president, Dr. Susan R. Wente. Like Wake Forest itself, Wente has a history of taking bold steps in education. She was selected not only for her exceptional reputation as an acclaimed academic and charismatic leader, but also for her vision of Wake Forest as a welcoming, inclusive community that will continue to make positive change in the world.
Wente is a renowned biomedical scientist who served as Vanderbilt’s provost and vice chancellor for seven years and interim chancellor for eleven months. She led Vanderbilt’s efforts to restructure the relationship between the university and its medical center, which affords her valuable insight into the recent partnership between Atrium Health and Wake Forest Baptist Health. Never far from the lab or classroom, Wente models Wake Forest’s distinctive teacher-scholar ideal and has continued to mentor and conduct research with undergraduates throughout her administrative career.
Presidential Inauguration
Students, faculty, staff and guests participated in a series of inaugural events in March. President Wente’s inauguration ceremony was held March 25.
From Wente’s Desk
- Reflecting Forward on the Academic Year
- Embracing Change
- Reflections on Inauguration Week
- What Will We Found Together?
- Many Voices, One Wake Forest: Using Feedback to Propel Us Forward
- A Great University
- Leading with Trust, Transparency and Teamwork
- A University Council to Support Diversity and Inclusion Progress
Engagement
Social: Follow or Mention
Talk with the President
- Students: Gold & Black Chats (with VP for Campus Life Shea Kidd Brown)
- Faculty & Staff: Wednesdays with Wente
Presidential Address
On Nov. 19, 2021, Dr. Wente delivered her first presidential address. She shared about her journey of discovery, engagement and initial observations.
“Great Universities” survey
Dr. Wente is engaging University stakeholders in discussions around: What is expected of a great university today? Share your input »
Find out more
- Wake Forest Magazine editor Maria Henson (’82) spoke with Dr. Wente after her selection as Wake Forest’s 14th president. Read the interview »
- President Wente spoke with the Winston-Salem Journal after her first two months. Read the interview and see video »
What They’re Saying
“Dr. Wente is committed to connecting with people, hearing their ideas, and building a shared vision. She invites all perspectives into the conversation.”
Melissa Shields Jenkins (’01), associate professor of English and member of the Search Committee
Revisit the announcement of Dr. Wente as Wake Forest’s new president, and find out what members of the Search Committee and national leaders are saying about her leadership. Read More »