Women's History Month Spotlight: Dean of Academic Early College Dr. Nicole Shankle

VINCENNES UNIVERSITY IS CELEBRATING WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH BY HIGHLIGHTING THE EXCEPTIONAL WOMEN WHO CONTRIBUTE TO OUR UNIVERSITY COMMUNITY. THESE INSPIRING LEADERS INCLUDE TRAILBLAZING EDUCATORS AND VISIONARY ADMINISTRATORS WHO MOTIVATE US TO SUPPORT EACH OTHER, RISE TOGETHER, AND CREATE A FUTURE WHERE EVERY INDIVIDUAL'S POTENTIAL IS REALIZED. THROUGH THIS SERIES, WE HONOR AND RECOGNIZE THE STRENGTH, ACHIEVEMENTS, AND SERVICE OF VU'S WOMEN LEADERS. TOGETHER, WE STRIVE TO FOSTER A CULTURE OF ENCOURAGEMENT AND INSPIRATION.

As a first-generation college student, Dr. Nicole Shankle shattered the glass ceiling and achieved her dream of earning a Ph.D., inspiring countless others to pursue their aspirations. The Dean of Academic Early College at Vincennes University is a shining example for students everywhere.

With more than two decades of experience dedicated to student success, Shankle’s journey from being a first-generation college student to leading transformative initiatives illuminates her stalwart commitment to empowering all students, especially underrepresented groups. Determined to make a difference, she embarked on a career devoted to supporting and advocating for students from diverse backgrounds.

As Dean of Academic Early College, Shankle orchestrates traditional Early College partnerships throughout Indiana, providing high school students with priceless opportunities to jump-start their college education. Before her current role, she was the Assistant Dean of Early College at Ben Davis University High School and Lawrenceburg Early College High School, both affiliated with VU. Her influence extends beyond VU. Shankle held pivotal leadership positions at Ivy Tech Community College Columbus, University of Cincinnati, and Miami University of Ohio, where she championed initiatives ranging from academic advising to disability services.

Armed with a doctorate from the University of Cincinnati, a master’s degree from Temple University, and a bachelor’s degree from Kentucky State University, her academic prowess is matched only by her intense dedication to student success. Her tireless advocacy and visionary leadership continue to shape the educational landscape.

Tell us about your role at VU and what you enjoy about it.

"In my current role, I serve as the Dean of Academic Early College. I have oversight of 15 traditional Early College programs with professional and support staff located in early college sites all over the state of Indiana. I truly enjoy knowing that the decisions that are made in my office or at the University can and has changed the lives of thousands of students and their families. I love being part of a program that is designed specifically to help all students but specifically, underrepresented students achieve success. Some of our students are not only first-generation college students but also first generation high school students. During the commencement and recognition ceremonies, I always get a little emotional seeing our Early College students walk across the stage beaming with pride having earned a high school diploma and a VU credential."

What’s the best part of working with other women?

"The best part of working with other women is the comfort in knowing that we often can find things in common. These commonalities bring us together on a personal and professional level. Whether it is a shared bond of family life experiences or similar journeys of professional experience. It is comfort in knowing that we are not alone on this journey."

Seeing women in leadership roles can inspire girls and young women to reach higher and dream bigger. Who has influenced your ambitions?

"Dr. Betty Fritz-Cook, my former professor and faculty advisor who passed away many years ago, had a strong influence on my ambitions early in my life. She helped me, at the ripe age of 17, open my eyes to the possibilities of what I could accomplish. She saw things in me that I didn’t see in myself as a first- generation college student with a lack of confidence. Dr. Rosalie Hine and Dr. Carolyn Jones both retired from higher education were two of the best supervisors who provided tough love but a guiding spirit during my time with them. They both helped me to not shy away from the “hard” and to recognize that I do deserve a seat at the table."

How do you strive to set an example for the next generation of women leaders?

"I strive to set an example for the next generation of women leaders by encouraging them to find a sense of purpose on a personal and professional level. When you have a defined purpose, it makes it easier to focus on the mission and stay focused when things are hard. Being approachable and making myself available to mentor is one of the best examples for the next generation. There is the constant reminder that I did not make it this far alone therefore no woman should ever feel they are alone on this journey."

What does Women's History Month mean to you?

"Women’s History month reminds me to reflect on all the women in my life, past and present. I come from a very large family, which includes my mother Odessa Grant, my grandmothers, 10 maternal and paternal aunties, three sisters, and so many cousins. I also have a network of lifelong friends, my bestie since the 8th grade and all of my Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. sisters, who have all been in my life for over 30 years. All of these women have prayed for me and poured into me to become the person I am today. When I reflect on everything I’ve done and will continue to do, I have to acknowledge and celebrate the talent, the bravery and the wisdom of all the unsung sheros that have come before me. Women’s History month reminds me of the importance of being an example for the younger generation, especially my 15-year-old daughter, who must carry the torch for the future generation of women leaders."

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