The University of South Carolina Upstate (USC Upstate) announced that Dr. Tierney Bates will be its new vice chancellor for student affairs. Bates will join on July 1, bringing more than two decades of higher education experience.
"I am very excited that Dr. Bates is joining our team in this important role," said Dr. Bennie L. Harris, chancellor of USC Upstate. "His experience and track record of visionary leadership will ensure that our students and aspirants will experience programs and services that continue to ensure their success and make USC Upstate a university of choice."
Since January 2020, Bates has been the assistant vice chancellor for special projects and interim executive director for university career services at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. In 2019, Bates was vice president for enrollment management and student affairs at Virginia Union University.
He has also worked at North Carolina Central University, the University of Louisville, and the University of Tennessee-Knoxville, among other institutions.
"I look forward to working with Chancellor Harris, his cabinet, the division of student affairs staff, students, and the Upstate community on creating a co-curriculum journey focused on every student experiencing Upstate excellence and pride," said Bates on his new role.
He earned his bachelor's as well as master's degrees from the University of Akron. Bates went on to receive a master's of business administration from Bryan College and a doctorate from Spalding University. He is involved in numerous organizations, including serving on the board of the Dr. Melvin C. Terrell Educational Foundation.