Meet the AVC

Christina Downey, Ph.D., has served as the associate vice chancellor for undergraduate education and dean of University College since February 2023. In this role Downey collaborates with academic units across all disciplines to advance student success, improve retention and graduation rates, and reduce equity gaps. She leads the Division of Undergraduate Education and its key units: University College, Honors College, and Institute for Engaged Learning, in delivering high-quality learning experiences and support programs to undergraduate students.

A thoughtful, collaborative, and engaged higher education professional, Downey takes a servant-leader approach to successfully navigating complex challenges. She emphasizes empowering colleagues with data, professional development, and enthusiastic colleagueship to implement innovative ideas through informed and constructive dialogue. As a lifelong learner and active scholar, Downey brings the perspective of a social scientist and social justice advocate to day-to-day decision making.

Administrative Activities

• February 2023–present: Associate Vice Chancellor for Undergraduate Education and Dean of University College, IU Indianapolis
• August 2022–January 2023: Interim Executive Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, Indiana University Kokomo
• 2016–2022: Associate Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs and Student Success, Indiana University Kokomo
• 2013–2016: Chair of Psychology, Indiana University Kokomo

Teaching Activities

• As of 2023: Professor of Psychology, IU Indianapolis
• 2018–2023: Professor of Psychology, Indiana University Kokomo
• 2013–2017: Associate Professor of Psychology, Indiana University Kokomo
• 2007–2013: Assistant Professor of Psychology, Indiana University Kokomo

Teaching priorities include:

• Engaging students actively and authentically with course material
• Evoking curiosity for both specific course material, and related questions of relevance to students’ lives and their world
• Enhancing student skills in critical thinking, oral and written expression, good self-management, and professionalism
• Preparation for life beyond the classroom

Research Interests

• Conceptualizations of health and measurement of lay theories, and relations to health behavior
• Eating disturbance and disorder, issues of body image, and perfectionism
• Multicultural and international issues in mental health and wellness behaviors, and relations to positive psychology
• Service-learning activities, online learning, and attitudes about diversity in higher education

Education

• 2008: Ph.D., Psychology (Clinical), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
  Dissertation: Lay theories of health: Multidimensional conceptualizations of what comprises health in young and middle-aged adults.
• 2004: M.S., Clinical Psychology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
  Thesis: Perfectionism and eating disturbances: Examining the roles of body dissatisfaction, negative affect, and social support in female college students.
• 1999: B.A., With Highest Distinction, Psychology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana