The WVU Provost’s Office announces the appointment of W. Constinia Charbonnette as Director of the WVU Women’s Leadership Initiative, effective July 1.
The Women’s Leadership Initiative was originally established in 2012 as the Women’s Leader Development Program. Since its inception, the initiative has aimed to empower women in leadership roles across WVU and provide them with the resources to help them reach their full potential.
Supported by the Office of the Provost, the WLI is guided by a 12-person Steering Committee made up of professionals on WVU campuses, including the WLI Director. Each year, the WLI leadership team offers a unique program and organizes a variety of professional learning and networking opportunities for its members around this leadership program.
“I am thrilled to serve WLI and its members in such a meaningful way, especially because WLI has been integral to my professional rise at WVU,” Charbonnette said. “WLI creates a space for women leaders to network, learn and grow in their professions and their purpose to improve the lives of women, which collectively improves the lives of everyone. And given this important period in our state and national history, the mission and work of WLI has never been more needed.
Charbonnette is currently an assistant professor and director of strategic initiatives at the WVU School of Public Health. In addition to her teaching, Charbonnette leverages university programs to meet the demands of the public health workforce and provides leadership for the school’s diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives. Previously, Charbonnette served as Assistant Dean of Graduate Programs at John Chambers College of Business and Economics, held various positions in the Office of Graduate Education and Life, and taught at the College of Education and Human Services. Prior to joining the Mountaineer family, Charbonnette served as director of Washington & Jefferson College as assistant dean of student life and multicultural affairs.
“Professor Charbonnette brought intense dedication and commitment to each of her leadership roles within and outside of WVU,” said Melissa Latimer, associate vice provost for faculty development and culture. “Her leadership has already benefited many constituents on our campus, including the diverse undergraduate and graduate students she has helped recruit and support. I am thrilled to see how she translates these skills and experiences in her leadership role in the Women’s Leadership Initiative and her impact on WVU’s culture of inclusivity and diversity, especially for female faculty and staff.
Charbonnette has been a member of WLI since 2013 and a member of the Steering Committee since 2019, and succeeds Allison Dagen who is stepping down as Director of WLI to take on additional responsibilities in the Office of Higher Education and Life. Charbonnette received her Doctor of Education and Masters of Business Administration from WVU, a Master of Science in Secondary Mathematics from the University of New Haven, and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Howard University.
Learn more about the WLI initiative and its programs.
