Radford University celebrates the accomplished career and dedicated service of chief information officer
Following an accomplished career spanning five decades, Radford University is celebrating the dedicated service of Danny M. Kemp, Vice President for Information Technology and Chief Information Officer, who recently announced his retirement effective June 24, 2020. A creative, enthusiastic, results-driven professional with extensive experience leading people and project teams, Vice President Kemp oversaw technology initiatives and programs, such as implementation of the Banner ERP system, multiple upgrades to the online portal and web presence, and introduction of mobile web presence and application, and administered technology budgets at Radford University, while demonstrating an in-depth understanding of emerging technologies and their applicability to higher education.
President Brian O. Hemphill, Ph.D. said, “Leading Radford University’s technology enterprise since December 2006, Danny has a long list of successful projects and collaborative efforts that are reflective of his strong leadership and warm personality. His expertise and knowledge in the technology industry are incredible, but come second to his everlasting appreciation for and unwavering commitment to his team and the entire Radford family.”
President Hemphill continued, “Danny was one of the first individuals to welcome me when I began my tenure in 2016. Very quickly, I witnessed first-hand Danny’s expertise in technology and commitment to Radford. During his time at Radford, he has gained the respect of the campus and the community, while making a profound impact on the University’s technology capabilities and service functions.”
With progressive responsibilities across his long-standing, technology-based career, ranging from systems development to various administrative roles, Vice President Kemp has a proven record of planning and directing activities that lead to innovative and productive information technology solutions.
Associate Vice President for Information Technology Ed Oakes said, “Danny cares deeply about this University and has worked diligently to build and expand a technology environment that is a leader in higher education. I have been honored to be a member of his team and have learned a great deal from him. Danny’s retirement will create a significant void at Radford University. I wish him well as he is certainly deserving of this recognition and so much more.”
Assistant Vice President for Information Technology Margie Vest, who is located in Roanoke as part of Radford University Carilion said, “When I officially joined the Radford family last year, Danny went above and beyond to understand the challenges and opportunities associated with the merger of Jefferson College of Health Sciences into Radford University. He addressed every challenge and explored every opportunity. His collaborative engagement and constant support during and after the merger are clear examples of the professional manner in which he approaches his critical role and important work at Radford.”
With previous experience in technology-based leadership positions at both Mississippi State University and Wake Forest University, Vice President Kemp serves as a member of the President’s Cabinet and Leadership Council and leads the Division of Information Technology by providing vision, leadership, and strategic planning for all aspects of information technology pertaining to academic, administrative, and research needs of Radford University.
In reflecting on his distinguished and lengthy career and preparing for his deserving and upcoming retirement, Vice President Kemp said, “I have been fortunate to lead some outstanding and talented teams and work at institutions in which I had the privilege of implementing best practices and making significant advances in technology, while meeting the changing needs of students, faculty, and staff, both current and future. I would like to thank President Hemphill for his exceptional leadership and the close working relationship we have developed since his arrival at Radford University.”
In closing, President Hemphill said, “It is difficult to accurately capture the unbelievable impact Danny had on Radford University, its people, and its programs. The Radford family extends its deepest appreciation and heartfelt gratitude to Vice President Kemp for his exemplary leadership and outstanding service during his long-standing tenure at Radford University and throughout his accomplished career in the technology industry!”