VINCENNES, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — Vincennes University has recently selected a new Dean of Students to join the VU community.
Mark Zimmerman, started the position on Jan 3 and brings a broad range of experiences in higher education from multiple institutions that can easily be applied to the role. Holding previous positions at places like the University of Southern Indiana, Western Kentucky University, Olney Central College, and Wabash Valley College.
Zimmerman has been an assistant director of judicial affairs and conference services, a residential life and housing coordinator, a campus police officer, and an adjunct instructor.
Vincennes University Provost Dr. Laura Treanor commented on Zimmerman’s diverse background.
“Mark brings a variety of experiences to his role as Dean of Students at Vincennes University. He has a proven ability to work with all individuals throughout a higher education institution,” Treanor said.
Zimmerman’s new role will include the responsibilities of building relationships with staff and faculty to help students succeed academically and socially, running the judicial affairs process, and working as an advocate for students.
While Zimmerman has a long history of working in higher education, his most recent role was with the Illinois State Police as a master sergeant. Having joined ISP in 2000, Zimmerman retired last year in December.
Zimmerman enjoys working with students and building relationships to help them succeed.
“We are excited for Mark to join our Student Affairs team,” Assistant Provost for Student Affairs Whitney Daugherty said. “He brings a great deal of experience working with students in and out of the classroom. Mark’s experience in higher education will assist the division in achieving our goals of remaining student-focused and helping students navigate a successful college experience.”
Zimmerman discussed his approach to the role and how he is looking forward to the new position.
“I enjoy getting to know students and the issues they are facing,” Zimmerman said. “During this semester, I will be spending time on campus, attending campus events and programs to allow me to meet as many of our students as I can. I would like the Dean of Students Office to have an “open-door” environment. I want to reach out to students to get to know them, so they will feel comfortable coming to our office.”
Zimmerman’s educational history includes a Master of Arts in Education from Western Kentucky, with a focus on student affairs and higher education, and a Bachelor of Science degree in history and secondary education from Southern Illinois University.
