CU Denver Names Zina L. Evans, PhD, as Next Vice Chancellor for Strategic Enrollment and Student Success

The University of Colorado Denver is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Zina L. Evans as the next Vice Chancellor for Strategic Enrollment and Student Success (SESS), following a national search. Evans will begin on July 1, 2025.

Zina L. Evans, PhD

Evans brings more than 35 years of exceptional leadership experience in a wide range of areas, which include enrollment management, admissions, financial aid, and student success. These are key areas for students’ success and fall under the SESS portfolio. Evans brings wide perspective from her work at a variety of public higher education institutions. Her expertise, visionary leadership, and deep commitment to access and student success align with CU Denver’s mission of providing equitable and transformative education to all.

“I am deeply honored to join Chancellor Christensen and the entire CU Denver community at this pivotal moment,” Evans said. “I look forward to contributing to its transformative mission to make education work for all. Together, we will enhance access and excellence in education, ensuring every student thrives academically, personally, and professionally.” 

Evans has held several positions in higher education institutions and nonprofit organizations. Those include her current role, Senior Vice President for Higher Ed Strategy, Enrollment, and Student Success, at the Partnership for Education Advancement. The organization is dedicated to enhancing student access to and success at colleges and universities, which is similar to CU Denver’s mission. As Vice President for Enrollment Management and Associate Provost at the University of Florida, she collaborated with deans, faculty, and other professionals across the institution. Her leadership resulted in groundbreaking initiatives expanding access to education for thousands of students. 

Evans’ dedication to leveraging data-driven strategies, technology, and collaborative partnerships with stakeholders across the institution and broader community will play a vital role in advancing CU Denver’s strategic goals, most notably in providing a seamless and supportive student experience from pre-enrollment to graduation. Her holistic understanding of enrollment management and student success will be instrumental in enhancing CU Denver’s efforts to attract, retain, and graduate our students.

Evans holds a PhD in Higher Education, Student Affairs, and International Education Policy from the University of Maryland, a Master of Science in Human Development, Counseling, and Family Studies from the University of Rhode Island, and a Bachelor of Arts in Social Ecology from the University of California, Irvine.