University College Welcomes Holly Hurlburt

University College and the Division of Academic and Student Affairs (DASA) are excited to announce the addition of Holly Hurlburt as the college’s new Assistant Dean and Executive Director for Academic Enrichment Programs.

In this role, Hurlbert will work with the University Honors and Scholars Program, Office of Undergraduate Research, Fellowship Advising Office, First Year Inquiry, and TH!NK, to offer Wolfpack students across the university opportunities to engage in high impact practices and activities which drive student success. 

Hurlburt comes to NC State from Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, Illinois. While at SIU, Hurlburt served as the director of the Chancellor’s Scholars Program, in addition to her role as department chair of the Department of History. She taught courses on Early Modern Europe, world history, and the history of food at the undergraduate and graduate level, including courses on Women, Gender, and Sexuality. Her fields of specialization are Early Modern Italy, women’s and gender history, and Mediterranean Studies. 

Hurlburt earned her bachelor’s degree in History from the University of Virginia and holds a master’s and Ph.D. in Early Modern European History from Syracuse University. She served as a professor in SIU’s history department for nearly 18 years. She has also written two books, Daughters of Venice: Caterina Corner, Queen of Cyprus and Woman of the Renaissance (2015) and The Dogaressa of Venice, 1200 – 1500: Wife and Icon (2006). In addition, Hurlburt has authored and contributed to numerous articles, book chapters, and other scholarly publications. 

When asked about coming to NC State, Dr. Hurlburt mentioned, “I’m a historian by trade, but I’m excited to be able to think and learn alongside faculty and staff from across the university.” She further explained she was looking forward to being a part of the fast-paced university environment. “The university is already doing a lot of exciting things. The world is ever-changing, and I’m excited to be a part of a university that is working to change with it in such a thoughtful way.” Hurlburt also noted, “I think the most important thing about me is I’m student-centered. Working with students inspires me.”  She adamantly believes the opportunity to learn from students is valuable, which she fully appreciates and embraces.

Across University College and DASA, faculty and staff have expressed enthusiasm to welcome Hurlbert. “We look forward to having Hurlburt working with us in the division,” exclaimed Mike Mullen, vice chancellor and dean for the Division of Academic and Student Affairs. He further noted, “she brings a wealth of academic and administrative experience to NC State and we are excited to have her on the team!” Bret Smith, senior associate dean, added, “Hurlburt brings a high level of scholarship, a strong record of interdisciplinary research, a passion for collaboration, and a vision for creating enrichment opportunities for students across the university. We are excited to welcome her to NC State.”