Wilson named Multicultural Affairs dean

After six years of working in Grand Valley's Admissions office, Oliver Wilson said he looks forward to continuing helping students reach their goals in his new role as dean of Multicultural Affairs.
He begins his new duties on June 2.

Wilson takes over the position that was held on an interim basis by Mike Woods, who retired on May 1. Wilson joined GVSU's Admissions office in 1997 and had most recently served as associate director of minority recruitment. He received a bachelor's degree and master's degree in public administration from the University of Wyoming. Wilson also played basketball for the Cowboys.

'In terms of my career goals, this new position was in the cards,' Wilson said. 'I'm still able to provide services to students and help expedite their transition to college life, or help with other concerns students bring with them when they are away from home.'

About 11 percent of Grand Valley,s 20,000 students are minorities. Wilson said his immediate goals as dean will be to enhance recruitment and retention of minority students and ensure a welcoming environment on campus.

Wilson is active in the Grand Rapids community and serves as a board member of the Black Education Excellence Program and Touchstone Innovare, among other oranizations.

Grand Valley's Office of Multicultural Affairs hosts many programs and events throughout the year aimed at promoting cultural diversity. The office also sponsors three minority cohorts (Minority Business Education, Minority Science Education, Minority Teacher Education) to increase students' academic success in these fields.