Bellevue native Tracy Fitzsimmons has begun her new position as president of Shenandoah University. Dr. Fitzsimmons, 41, is now the youngest sitting university president in Virginia.

Shenandoah University will celebrate Fitzsimmons’ formal inauguration in September with a variety of events, including presentations by Pulitzer Prize-nominated author, historian, civil rights activist, actress, producer and director Maya Angelou.

Fitzsimmons is the first woman president of the 133-year-old institution.

She lives with her family in Reliance, Va.