Stephanie Dupaul

Hometown: Native Floridian, but long time Texas resident before I arrived in Richmond.

Education: Ed.D., Higher Education and Leadership, University of Alabama; M.A., English, Southern Methodist University; B.A., English, University of Texas

Favorite TV show to binge watch? F-1: Drive to Survive or the British Baking Show.

Favorite D-Hall dessert? Is fried chicken a dessert?

Favorite RVA restaurant? ZZQ, Shagbark, Brenner Pass, Hogshead, Peter Chang

Biggest travel-related phobia? Fire alarms in hotels, and being late.

Favorite person/celebrity to follow on social media? Emmett

Favorite part of the application? The essay!

Who would play you in a movie? Melissa McCarthy

What is the coolest architectural feature or piece of architecture on campus? Why?

The archway over the Refectory, because of the faces overlooking Milheiser Green. One is purported to be Ralph Adams Cram, the university’s architect, but with the glasses he looks slightly like a very famous wizard. I might be a bit of a Harry Potter fan.

If you could take any class at UR, what would it be?

Benchtop Innovations, because I would love to invent a new food!

What is one piece of advice you’d give students for the college search/application process?

Control what you can, and let go of what you cannot control. You can’t go back and change your grade in 9th grade algebra. But you can make sure you do your math homework this week! Oh, and be nice to people who are trying to help you. It’s not nagging, it is love!

Let’s talk about RVA. What do you like about living here? What are your favorite things to do in the city/region? What should visitors be sure to check out?

This city is the perfect combination of all the best things you’d find in a big city, but with less traffic, no pollution, and tons of green space for outdoor activities. The river, the VMFA, the interesting clusters of neighborhoods, and the awesome weather make this a fabulous place to live. It is impossible to run out of new restaurants to try!