By: Addison Mason 

BRISTOL, R.I. – The Roger Williams University Vice President for Student Life Search Committee announced that Vitaliano Figueroa, EdD, will be taking the position of VP of Student Life. Figueroa is the current Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse. He is set to take over beginning July 13, 2026, following John King’s retirement. 

Figueroa graduated from the University of Rhode Island with a Bachelor of Arts, Political Science, Government, and Economics in 1994. He returned the following year to get his Master’s in Human Development and College Student Personnel. He went on to earn his doctorate in Educational Leadership from Argosy University. 

The Search Committee believes that Figueroa will “bring a clear student-centered perspective and a collaborative leadership approach that will serve RWU well.” 

Figueroa is very excited for the position, stating, “I look forward to working with students, faculty, and staff to continue the great work that is happening at RWU and explore additional opportunities to enhance the student experience.”