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Debbie Ricker, a lifelong academic and biology professor, became Hood's vice president of academic affairs and provost on July 1, 2016.

A native of Mars Hill, N.C., Ricker is coming to Hood from York College of Pennsylvania where she is currently the dean of academic services. In that capacity, she oversees academic advising, career development, professional excellence, disability support services, study abroad and global education and community education. She serves as an advocate for more than 200 faculty advisers and supervises 20 staff members.