July 24, 2013
Michael S. Allen, Ph.D., currently associate vice president and director of athletics at The Catholic University of America, has been appointed vice president for student affairs, effective Aug. 15, 2013. Allen has served for 8 years as the University's athletic director and spent a dozen years before that working in student-centered support programs at Florida Atlantic University and the University of Connecticut.
As vice president, Mike Allen will be responsible for the University's Division of Student Affairs. This includes the Office of Student Affairs, the Counseling Center, Student Health Services, the Office of Disability Support Services, the Office of Career Services, Campus Activities, Student Conduct, Residence Life, and Athletics.
"A successful vice president for student affairs must demonstrate an ability to work well with and complement the academic community," University President John Garvey said. "Michael Allen has shown during his years here, and at the other universities where he has worked, the skills and the experience to do this effectively. He has designed and administered programs to promote the adjustment of new students to college life, supervised professional counseling staff members, taught in First-Year Experience courses, and served as liaison with multicultural affairs, admissions, and various student affairs offices. He has built bridges throughout campus to enhance the overall collegiate experience and success of students.
"It is gratifying to identify and be able to hire a superbly qualified candidate from within our ranks to fill a key position. For this particular position, it was very important to hire someone who understands and is committed to the mission of the University. In Mike Allen we have that person and are fortunate that his transition to this new role should be seamless."