Presenter Bio - Allen Groves

Allen Groves serves Syracuse University as Senior Vice President for the Student Experience, the Chief Student Experience Officer of the University.

Prior to his present role at Syracuse, Groves served for 14 years as Associate Vice President and University Dean of Students for the University of Virginia. In 2021, Groves was one of 12 individuals tasked with drafting the University of Virginia’s “Statement on Free Expression and Free Inquiry,” and prior to that, he was one of 16 individuals tasked with drafting UVA’s 2030 strategic plan for a university that is both “Great and Good.” In 2014-15, Groves was one of 30 citizens appointed by the Governor of Virginia to develop a set of best practices for preventing sexual assault on college and university campuses. He was also named one of eight “OUTstanding Virginians” by Equality Virginia for his demonstrated commitment to full equality for LGBTQ citizens.

Prior to his leadership roles in higher education, Groves was an equity partner in the global law firm Seyfarth Shaw LLP, serving as litigation practice group chair in Atlanta while representing clients in a wide range of matters over a 16-year career. He earned a law degree from the University of Virginia School of Law and a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from Stetson University, where he received the Rhett Award for the best research manuscript. Groves is a frequent speaker on legal issues affecting higher education, including the intersection of free expression and a welcoming and inclusive university.