James S. Bridgeforth

James S. Bridgeforth joined Virginia Tech in October 2020 as Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs and ExperienceVT. The position was created to further the goals of ExperienceVT, a Student Affairs initiative that guides students in understanding and practicing the Aspirations for Student Learning through engagement and reflection.

Bridgeforth supervises the Cranwell International Center, Fraternity and Sorority Life, Learning Partnerships, and VT Engage: The Center for Leadership and Service Learning. Additionally, in partnership with Ted Faulkner, Assistant Vice President for Dining, Housing, and Student Centers, Bridgeforth shares supervision for Student Engagement and Campus Life.

“As a first-generation college student who grew-up in southern rural Virginia, I learned that the college experience can transform a person's life in ways they may never have imagined by providing access and avenues to a better quality of life,” said Bridgeforth. “It is my goal to help everyone achieve their dreams, and the college experience can be the greatest springboard for one's success. I am excited to meet as many students as I can and learn how we can partner with them on their journey.” 

Bridgeforth came to Virginia Tech from the University of South Alabama where he was Director of University Housing and Graduate Faculty Instructor in Higher Education Administration. He brings more than 17 years of experience working in higher education, including at public universities, private colleges, HBCUs, and land-grant institutions. He has extensive experience working with college students and collaborating with both academics and student affairs to champion the student experience.

Bridgeforth earned his Ph.D. in Higher Education Administration and Institutional Research from the University of Southern Mississippi. He has a Master of Education degree from the University of Massachusetts Amherst and a B.A. in Sociology from Catawba College. His previous professional positions include Executive Director for Housing and Residence Life at Kennesaw State University and Assistant Director of Residence Life and First-Year Experience at the University of Southern Mississippi. He is proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. 

“I was attracted to this position by the character of Virginia Tech and the institution's motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve),” said Bridgeforth. “I love the idea that Virginia Tech is dedicated to improving the quality of life and the human condition and that is something that I've always wanted to be a part of.”

Bridgeforth’s strengths are: Futuristic, Achiever, Focus, Competition, and Significance.