Chilton is a first-generation college student. She has a B.A. from the
University at Albany, SUNY (1985). Chilton received her M.A. (1991) and her Ph.D. (1996), both in anthropology, from the
University of Massachusetts Amherst. Following her Ph.D. Chilton held academic positions at
Skidmore College and
Harvard University before joining the
University of Massachusetts Amherst in 2001 where she was promoted to professor in 2010. In August 2012, Chilton was named associate dean for research and programs. Her final role at
University of Massachusetts Amherst came as associate vice chancellor for research and engagement, before her departure for
Binghamton University in 2017 where she served as the dean of Harpur College of Arts and Sciences From 2011 to 2016 Chilton was co-editor of the journal
Heritage & Society. From 2019 to 2021 Chilton was president of the Archaeology Division of the
American Anthropological Association. In May 2024, Chilton was named as the next president of the University of New Hampshire. She began her new role on July 1, 2024. == Research ==