New appointments for Kennedy, Brand

Dr. Christopher M. Kennedy and Ms. LaTasha D. Brand have new positions at Francis Marion University. Kennedy has been appointed the Director of the Honors Program and Brand has been named Vice President for Student Life.

Kennedy joined the faculty of Francis Marion in 2006. In 2012, he became Chair of the History Department. He served as Associate Provost for Academic Affairs and Director of Graduate Programs from 2016 until 2019 when he was appointed Vice President for Student Life. As Director of FMU’s Honors Program, Kennedy will work to bolster student engagement in scholarship, research, and service through creative course offerings, activities, and domestic and international travel opportunities.

Kennedy received his Bachelor of Arts from Northern Michigan University, Master of Arts from Providence College, and the Ph.D. from University College Cork, National University of Ireland. 

Brand began her career at FMU in 2004 as assistant dean of students. In 2018, she became Dean of Students. As Vice President of Student Life, Brand will oversee student programming, residence life, campus health, recreational services, and other special projects.

Brand is a graduate of Francis Marion with a bachelor’s degree in English.

“I’m pleased to announce the appointments of Chris and LaTasha to these important positions,” said FMU President Fred Carter. “Both have served the FMU community well in a variety of positions over the past couple of decades. They love this university and our students. Their passion and commitment will carry forward into these new responsibilities.”

“Chris has been a staunch supporter of our Honors Program since he first arrived on campus nearly twenty years ago. He is a fine teacher and an exceptional administrator. He will continue the tradition of excellence that the FMU Honors program sustained during Jon Tuttle’s stellar leadership.

“LaTasha has been an integral part of student life at FMU for many years, including during her time as a student when she served as president of the Student Government Association. She understands the student experience as well as anyone on this campus and is richly deserving of this unique opportunity.”

Both appointments take effect at the end of this academic year.