Fitchburg State University President Dr. Donna Hodge has announced a series of key academic leadership appointments that will help guide the institution’s continued focus on academic excellence, strategic growth, and organizational alignment heading into the 2026-2027 academic year.
The appointments reinforce the university’s commitment to building a strong and collaborative academic leadership team positioned to advance student success, faculty achievement, and institutional transformation.
Dr. Franca Barricelli will continue serving as Acting Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, while Dr. Jannette McMenamy has accepted a permanent appointment as Associate Provost. In addition, Dr. Elizabeth Gordon has been appointed Interim Dean of the School of Health and Natural Sciences, effective June 8.
“Franca has led Academic Affairs with a steady hand, strong judgment, and a deep understanding of both our mission and this moment,” said Hodge. “Alongside her, Jannette has provided essential partnership and continuity, helping ensure that our work has not only continued, but remained focused, strategic, and aligned with the needs of our students and campus community.”
Barricelli, a longtime academic leader at Fitchburg State, agreed to continue her service as Acting Provost into the next academic year.
“It is a privilege to continue the important work of the Provost’s Office and to support the extraordinary faculty, librarians, and staff who create transformative learning environments for our students every day,” said Barricelli. “Fitchburg State’s mission has never been more important, and I remain deeply committed to advancing academic excellence, access, and innovation across the institution.”
McMenamy, who has served the university in multiple academic leadership roles over more than two decades, will now permanently assume the role of Associate Provost.
“I am honored to step into this position at the university that has been my professional home for more than 20 years,” said McMenamy. “I care deeply about this institution, our students, and our people, and I am grateful for the opportunity to continue supporting our academic community and helping move the university forward.”
Gordon, a respected faculty member in the Environmental, Geographic and Public Health Sciences Department, will serve as Interim Dean of the School of Health and Natural Sciences following McMenamy’s transition into the Associate Provost role. Gordon brings extensive experience in academic leadership, student mentorship, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
President Hodge also recognized the broader leadership team within Academic Affairs, including members of the Provost’s Council, for maintaining continuity and momentum during a period of transition.
“This is what institutional strength looks like,” Hodge said. “Not the absence of change, but the presence of capable, committed leaders who continue to move the institution forward together with clarity, care, and purpose.”
The appointments follow the departure of former Provost and Executive Vice President Dr. Patricia Marshall, who recently accepted a position at another institution.
As Fitchburg State prepares for the upcoming academic year, university leaders said the appointments will help ensure continued progress on key institutional priorities, including academic innovation, student success, enrollment growth, and cross-divisional collaboration.
About Fitchburg State University
Founded in 1894, Fitchburg State University is a public university dedicated to integrating high-quality professional programs with a strong foundation in the liberal arts and sciences. Located in North Central Massachusetts, the university serves nearly 6,000 undergraduate, graduate, and continuing education students through more than 30 undergraduate programs and 22 master’s degree programs.