When Akirah Bradley-Armstrong was a first-generation college student, she never imagined she would one day help shape student life at one of the world's most prestigious universities. Now, she is set to do exactly that.
MIT has named Bradley-Armstrong as its new vice chancellor for student life, starting October 19, 2026. She will succeed Suzy M. Nelson, who spent 10 years transforming student life at MIT before retiring earlier this year.
Bradley-Armstrong comes to MIT from the University of California at Santa Cruz, where she has served as vice chancellor for student affairs and success since 2022. At UC Santa Cruz, she led one of the university's largest divisions, overseeing approximately 800 professional staff members, 2,100 student employees, and more than 30 departments focused on student health, housing, athletics, and campus life.
"Akirah is an accomplished and compassionate leader whose commitment to student success, belonging, and well-being has been demonstrated throughout her career," said Chancellor Melissa Nobles in a letter to the MIT community.
Throughout her career, Bradley-Armstrong has driven meaningful change at major universities. At UC Santa Cruz, she launched the University of California system's first campus mobile crisis response team and established a two-year housing guarantee for students. She also served on the board of the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators and chaired its 2025 national conference.
Bradley-Armstrong previously held senior student life roles at the University of California at Berkeley and the University of Colorado at Boulder. Her background as a first-generation college graduate, student-athlete, and sorority member has shaped her approach to supporting students.
"Throughout my career, I have partnered with high-achieving students across multiple institutions and understand that extraordinary achievement must be paired with strong investments in well-being, mental health, and belonging," Bradley-Armstrong said.
In her new role, Bradley-Armstrong will lead student life for both undergraduate and graduate students at MIT. Her responsibilities will include dining services, well-being and support programs, student organizations, athletics, and oversight of the faculty-led residential house system.
"I am honored to join MIT and to serve alongside its students, faculty, and staff to support an exceptional student experience," Bradley-Armstrong said. "I look forward to listening, learning, and building on the Institute's strong commitment to helping every student thrive."
Nobles noted that Bradley-Armstrong's innovative approach has positioned her well to lead MIT's student life efforts into the future. "I look forward to welcoming Akirah to MIT and to working alongside her — and our whole community — to shape MIT's next chapter of student life," Nobles said.