Radford University names Philip Bruce as executive director of career and talent development

Radford University has selected Philip Bruce as executive director of the Office of Career and Talent Development, bringing a wealth of expertise and vision to a position embodying the university's commitment to enhance student success through experience-based learning. Bruce will report to Associate Provost for Academic Affairs Jeanne Mekolichick. 

“We are delighted to welcome Philip to this vital role,” said Mekolichick. “He has an exceptional depth of experience, innovative thinking, strategic vision and contagious energy. With his leadership, we look forward to building our student employment initiative, the Radford Career Commitment, and realizing the full potential of our career-everywhere ecosystem that prepares all students for meaningful futures.” 

In his new role, Bruce will provide strategic leadership across the full spectrum of career services, including: 

• Career exploration – helping students discover and pursue their professional purpose 
• Talent development – building the skills and experiences employers actively seek 
• Job placement – connecting Highlanders to meaningful opportunities at graduation and beyond 
• Student employment support – expanding access to on-campus and work-based opportunities 
• Employer engagement – enhancing relationships with employers to provide students with rewarding internship and career opportunities 

Bruce will cultivate and strengthen collaboration across a broad ecosystem of stakeholders, including students, faculty, alumni and employers. He will also spearhead the development of a new student employment unit, an innovative initiative to deepen the connection between on-campus student employment and real-world workforce readiness. 

“Radford has a strong history and commitment to providing career resources to its students,” Bruce said. “I'm grateful for the opportunity to join this team and continue to support our students in whatever career outcomes they choose for their lives.” 

Bruce has more than 15 years of progressive experience leading career centers at private and public universities. Most recently, he served as assistant vice provost for experiential learning and director of the Center for Career and Professional Development at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. He earned a Master of Arts in psychology and a Bachelor of Arts in geography, both from Georgia Southern University. 

The search committee was led by Laura Turk ’87, M.S. ’90, executive director of alumni relations. The committee also included representatives from academic faculty and university administration.