After serving as interim dean of students for the past nine months, Allen Groves was named the permanent dean of students Wednesday.
The University selected Groves based on the recommendations of a search committee of administrators, faculty members and students who have been working throughout the past year to fill the position. The two other finalists were Phil Riordan, associate vice president for student affairs at Millersville University in Pennsylvania, and Beth Hellwig, dean of students at Gonzaga University.
"It was an expensive national search and the committee was pleased to receive a large number of excellent applications but when it was all over [Groves] stood out," search committee chair Maurice Apprey, who is also dean of the Office of African-American Affairs, stated in an e-mail.
Apprey noted Groves' motivation, intuitive analysis of complex situations and task completion skills contributed to Groves' selection.
"He came highly recommended by faculty, student leaders, and administrators alike," Apprey stated.
Lampkin also highlighted Groves' skill set as an important factor in the University's decision. She explained that although Groves, who has a background in law, may not have extensive experience in higher education, his abilities have proven beneficial to the Office of the Dean of Students.
Groves is pleased to be able to continue his work as the dean of students, he wrote in an e-mail, noting that he believes serving as the permanent dean will bring stability and consistency to his office and students.
"It allows me to plan for my office beyond very short-term objectives, including developing a comprehensive strategic plan," Groves stated.
He added that he plans to work collaboratively with other members of the University community to improve safety and student outreach.
"I want to look closely to see how we can improve outreach to international students and graduate students to make certain that they are fully connected to our community," Groves stated.
Groves graduated from the University's Law School in 1990 and was a practicing attorney until 2006 when he came to the University to work as a development officer for student affairs, according to a University press release.
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