Randolph-Macon College is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Tiffany Birdsong, as its new Associate Provost and Dean for Student Success. In this role, Birdsong will lead the College’s Center for Student Success and institution-wide efforts to enhance student retention and postgraduate outcomes—key priorities outlined in the College’s strategic plan and Four-Year Pathways framework. 

Birdsong brings to Randolph-Macon College a deep, evidence-based commitment to student success grounded in both theory and practice from more than a decade at Richard Bland College as faculty, Chief Academic Officer, and ultimately, Chief of Staff. “Her extensive experience in academic administration, strategic planning, advising innovation, and pathway-based student success models aligned closely with our vision for the Center for Student Success,” explained President Michael Hill. “She was a valued colleague as an American Council on Education (ACE) Fellow at RMC in 2024-2025, and we are thrilled to welcome her back to our Yellow Jacket community.”  

A powerful example of Birdsong’s approach can be seen through the success story of Allison Brittle ‘26, a current Randolph-Macon student and Richard Bland College graduate, whose academic journey reflects the impact of intentional pathways and sustained mentorship. Brittle first encountered Birdsong in the fall of 2022 as a student in her Abnormal Psychology course at Richard Bland College. At the time, Birdsong was shaping and implementing its Guided Pathways to Success advising model during a pivotal period of institutional change.

That model, designed to provide students with clear academic maps, proactive advising, and embedded support, proved transformative. Brittle not only persisted and transferred successfully to Randolph-Macon College but went on to excel academically and professionally during her time at RMC. Now graduating this spring, Brittle has completed an internship with the Ashland Police Department and has served as a student worker with Randolph-Macon’s Campus Safety Department, gaining applied experience directly aligned with career aspirations in public service, safety, and behavioral science.  

Throughout the journey, Birdsong has served as a mentor and advocate, reflecting that true student success is built over time through enduring relationships and consistent support, rather than onetime interventions. 

“Student success is realized when institutions combine clarity, care, and challenge,” Birdsong said. “Allison’s journey is a powerful example of what is possible when students are guided to explore intentionally, discover their direction, grow through mentorship and experience, and ultimately embark on their next chapter with purpose. That is the work I am excited to help advance at Randolph-Macon.” 

“Dr. Birdsong supported me through some of the most challenging academic moments of my journey and celebrated my personal triumphs along the way,” Brittle said. “From day one, her guidance and encouragement helped me build confidence academically, professionally, and personally.” 

As Associate Provost and Dean for Student Success, Birdsong will oversee and integrate key initiatives that support students across all four years, including first- and second-year transition programs, academic success services, and coordinated campus partnerships that connect academic progress with experiential and career-related opportunities—ensuring students remain on track academically while preparing intentionally for life after graduation. Her leadership will contribute directly to Randolph-Macon’s Four-Year Pathways vision: helping students move intentionally through exploration, decision-making, academic growth, and career launch. 

Birdsong’s appointment underscores Randolph-Macon College’s belief that student success is not defined solely by access, but by momentum, completion, and meaningful postgraduate opportunity. Through intentional pathways, proactive support, and sustained mentorship, Randolph-Macon continues to create an environment where students like Allison Brittle explore purposefully, grow with confidence, and embark on their next chapter well prepared.