A Message from Aaron Haight, Ed.D., Associate Vice President for Student Engagement and Dean of Students

The departure of Associate Dean Emily First provided an opportunity to assess how we can best support the wide range of student needs that come through the Dean of Students Office. In recent years, we have experienced significant growth in both CARE referrals (more than 1,600 annually) and Student Conduct cases (more than 800 annually). By aligning resources with emerging needs and best practices, we have restructured our team to better serve students and strengthen our support systems. 

As part of this restructuring, Ben Witt has been appointed Associate Dean of Students with oversight of both Care and Conduct. Supporting Ben in this work are Renee Malkowski, Deputy Director for Student Conduct and Conflict Resolution, and Katie Perschbachler, Senior Student Care and Outreach Case Manager. Additionally, through the reallocation of resources, we have created two new direct student-support positions that will be filled later this summer. 

To maximize the effectiveness of our current resources, we are also evolving our student support model. After more than a decade of the Student Ombuds approach, we are further integrating student advocacy and support within Dean of Students Office framework. The tremendous growth and success of the CARE team has resulted in students, faculty, staff, and families increasingly turning to the Dean of Students Office for guidance, assistance, and intervention. This evolution creates a more streamlined and coordinated support system, ensuring students have a clear point of contact and access to a proactive team capable of responding to concerns across the university. 

To support this enhanced model, Takeelia Garrett has been promoted to Assistant Dean of Students. In conjunction with this change, the Student Ombuds position has been sunsetted, with its responsibilities integrated into the broader Dean of Students Office structure. 

This transition is not about reducing student support; rather, it is about strengthening and institutionalizing it within the offices that engage most directly with students. The continued growth in CARE referrals, conduct cases, and the wide range of student concerns that extend across campus and beyond underscore the need for a coordinated and scalable approach. Integrating Takeelia's expertise and advocacy into the Dean of Students Office enhances our ability to provide comprehensive support while ensuring students continue to receive the personalized assistance they need. 

Throughout the summer, we will update our websites, materials, and resources to reflect these changes. We are also developing a comprehensive communication and outreach plan to ensure a smooth transition and to be fully prepared to welcome students back in August. Check out a sneak peek below of our DSO rebrand!

Please join me in congratulating the entire Dean of Students Office team on their hard work, dedication, and expanded responsibilities as we continue to strengthen our support for students.