Frank Shushok Jr. serves as the 12th president of Roanoke College, a role he stepped into in 2022. He has worked in higher education for 35 years, holding positions at Virginia Tech; Baylor University; University of Maryland, College Park; Northern Arizona University; and The Ohio State University.  He has a bachelor’s degree in history education from Baylor University, a master’s degree in higher education and student affairs from The Ohio State University, and a Ph.D. in higher education policy analysis from the University of Maryland, College Park.

1. What was your very first job and what did it teach you?

During the summers of high school and college, I worked at a residential YMCA summer camp in Texas. I served as a junior counselor, then a counselor, and finally unit leader. This was such a formative experience for me because it taught me the fundamentals of teamwork and the importance of mentorship. I also learned the brilliance of collaboration when pursuing both shared and individual goals.  Working with people who were quite different than me, too, helped me see the world differently, but also how community is built together working toward a common goal.

2. What made you interested in a career in higher education?

Everything that I have achieved or any success that I've had has been the result of other people who have encouraged or mentored me. I admire the role higher education environments play in helping people become their best selves. I am especially fond of helping young people think about not only what they want to do, but who they want to be. It is incredibly fun to be a part of someone's journey, particularly when I can elevate a person’s talent before they even recognize it in themselves. That is what people did for me, and I'm so glad to be able to do the same for other people now.

3. What projects are you currently working on at Roanoke College?

I believe our job at Roanoke College is to serve learners of all ages in our community. We constantly ask ourselves: What do people need, and how can we provide it?

We live in a fast-paced world that is changing rapidly, which means we have to be in a perpetual state of evaluating the emerging needs of the external environment and our students. We're doing that all the time through new degree programs and educational pathways, as well as through partnerships with industry. It takes a village for our communities to be at their best. I like the phrase: “A rising tide lifts all boats.” When industry, higher education, K-12 schools, and local governments work together to build the community we dream of, we find great momentum.

4. What are you looking forward to learning or doing as a GO Virginia Region 2 council member?

There are so many opportunities available because people are coming together around a common cause – to make Virginia a better place to live and work. These projects funded through GO Virginia are the result of a vision colliding with passionate people who care for the economic health of the region as a whole.

5. Can you talk about what drew you to the work of the Region 2 council and why regional economic development is important?

I want Virginia to be a place that serves everyone well, where people flourish, and where people are proud to live. I want everyone to know they matter and have something to contribute. GO Virginia is fundamentally about building a stronger community, one that is full of vitality. Economic development is such a critical factor in building a vibrant community and leads to good jobs, a higher quality of life, a sense of community, and a spirit of camaraderie, all aspects that are important for the Commonwealth of Virginia. 

6. What do you enjoy most about living in GO Virginia Region 2?

I love the people and the beautiful landscapes and terrain, as well as the hardworking spirit and belief that we can always do and be better. It’s inspiring and a great environment to be a part of.

7. What is the most memorable place you’ve ever visited?

There's nothing like seeing the Grand Canyon for the first time. It takes your breath away the first time you see it. 

8. In your spare time, what activities and hobbies do you like to do?

My wife, Kelly, and I love working on our 158-acre farm. I also enjoy hiking, fly fishing, and just about anything outdoors. I also have a really cool new John Deere tractor, which is a blast to operate!