University of the Cumberlands Appoints Dr. Trey Jarboe as Executive Vice President of Student Experience

University of the Cumberlands has appointed Dr. Trey Jarboe as executive vice president of student experience, reinforcing the institution’s commitment to student success, enrollment growth, and campus-wide support systems.  

A dedicated higher education leader with more than a decade of service at University of the Cumberlands, Dr. Jarboe brings a proven record of strategic leadership in advising, admissions, enrollment management, student success, and retention.

Leading the Department of Student Experience 

In his new role, Dr. Jarboe will oversee the recently established Department of Student Experience, which includes enrollment, student success, student affairs, athletics, and financial aid. The department was created under the leadership of University President Dr. Quentin Young to strengthen the university’s student-centered model from first inquiry through graduation and beyond.

“We recognize that the student experience is shaped by everyone who works here,” said Dr. Young during remarks to faculty and staff this spring. “Whether in the classroom, the admissions office, financial aid, or any other corner of campus, each of us holds a piece of the student journey. When we take that responsibility seriously, we create a culture where students feel seen, supported, and equipped to succeed.”

“As Cumberlands continues to grow in enrollment and reach, it is important that we position ourselves not only for continued success in attracting students but also for delivering the level of care, responsiveness, and support that truly defines an exceptional student experience,” Dr. Young said while introducing the new department to the campus community.

The Department of Student Experience advances this institutional vision by aligning enrollment, advising, athletics, and student engagement strategies under unified leadership.

“These areas already serve our students well with great care and effectiveness,” said Dr. Young. “By aligning them more closely, we can strengthen collaboration and ensure our focus on student experience is consistent across the entire university.”

Recognizing the strategic importance of this realignment, Dr. Jarboe expressed early in the decision-making process his desire to lead the initiative. Having served as provost, Jarboe saw an opportunity to make an even greater impact by focusing directly on the systems that shape the student journey from recruitment to retention and beyond. His transition into the role of executive vice president of student experience reflects a proactive commitment to strengthening Cumberlands’ student-centered mission.

A Three-Time Cumberlands Graduate and Community Leader 

A three-time graduate of University of the Cumberlands (B.S. ’13, M.J.A. ’13, Ph.D. ’15) and a native of Whitley County, Kentucky, Dr. Jarboe’s professional journey reflects the university’s mission of developing leaders from within the region. 

He began his career at Cumberlands in 2013 as an academic advisor and progressed through several key roles, including: 

• Associate Director of the School of Lifelong Learning
• Director of International Graduate Services
• Associate Vice President for Online Enrollment
• Vice President for Enrollment and Retention

In 2022, Dr. Jarboe was appointed provost of University of the Cumberlands, where he strengthened the university’s student support infrastructure. His leadership included the expansion of student success teams serving undergraduate, graduate, and online students, as well as the development of enhanced orientation and internship curricula designed to improve graduate student achievement and career readiness. 

In addition to administrative leadership, Dr. Jarboe has served as a university instructor since 2017, giving him direct classroom experience and insight into the evolving academic and professional needs of today’s students. 

A Vision for Student Success at University of the Cumberlands 

Dr. Jarboe said he very much looks forward toward the new role and says his primary goal is to “obsess over the student experience.” 

“Cumberlands has always been committed to meeting students where they are and walking alongside them every step of the way,” said Dr. Jarboe. “I am honored to help lead a team that is focused on creating intentional systems of support that empower every student to thrive academically, professionally, and personally.” 

“Dr. Trey Jarboe understands that the student experience does not begin on the first day of class, nor does it end at commencement,” Dr. Young added. “His leadership reflects a deep commitment to ensuring that every student feels seen, supported, and equipped to succeed. I am confident he will continue strengthening a culture where student success is not incidental, but intentional.” 

Rooted in Family and Community

Dr. Jarboe and his wife, Carley, are the proud parents of two sons, Evan and Owen. As a Cumberlands alumnus, educator, and administrator, he believes deeply in the transformative power of higher education and remains committed to ensuring that every student at University of the Cumberlands feels supported, challenged, and prepared for lifelong success.