Mike Whaley serves as Vice President for Student Affairs and, together with the Student Affairs/Deans’ Office team, works to ensure that students have a successful experience both inside and outside of the classroom. “Dean Mike,” as most students affectionately know him, has one of the most important jobs at the University. “Everyone in Student Affairs–from RAs to class deans to Usdan Center staff to the medical and counseling staff at the Health Center–works hard to forge strong relationships with students. We strive to be aware of student issues and concerns and it is our responsibility to challenge and support them as well as advocate for initiatives that improve the student experience at this amazing institution.”
Dean Mike grew up in upstate New York and was the first member of his family to attend college. He graduated from Cornell University with a degree in microbiology, and earned a graduate degree in counseling and higher education administration from Central Connecticut State University. He is well known at colleges throughout the northeast as a consultant, particularly in the areas of student leadership development, wellness, motivation, LGBTQ issues and diversity education. He has presented entertaining and thought-provoking workshops on a variety of topics at both regional and national conferences.
Dean Mike lives on campus and frequently invites groups of students to his home for dinners or receptions. He is frequently spotted jogging or walking his dog, a yellow lab named Bailey, on campus. And, don’t be surprised to see him at sporting events, performances and other campus events. “I’m a full-time residential member of the campus community, just like our students,” he said.