Hernández named vice president of student affairs

The College of Wooster has named Myrna Hernández vice president of student affairs and dean of students, effective February 1. Dean Hernández has been serving as interim vice president of student affairs and dean of students since July 1.

“Dean Hernández’ wonderful leadership as our Associate Vice President for Student Affairs in 2019-2020, and as interim Vice President this past fall, has been crucial to strengthening the student experience and to navigating the pandemic,” said President Sarah Bolton. “She is an excellent leader to advance and strengthen student life at Wooster in the years to come.”

Over the past six months, Dean Hernández has played a leading role in the planning and implementation of Wooster’s pandemic response, including serving on the COVID-19 Taskforce and the team responsible for determining the campus’ approach to testing. She continues to administer the College’s rapid response Student Financial Emergency Funds initiative ensuring students have the resources they need to continue their studies amid the challenges of the ongoing pandemic.

Dean Hernández will continue to work alongside President Bolton to implement key aspects of the “Connect, Create, Discover” strategic plan, including introducing team-based mentoring, strengthen support and safety services, serving on the steering committee for the Lowry Center renovation project, and implementing other strategies to build community and ensure students thrive during their time at Wooster.

“I am very proud and appreciative to have support from President Bolton and many of my professional colleagues around the institution,” said Hernández. “While the pandemic has presented a variety of challenges, the enthusiasm and determination of our students continues to shine bright. I look forward to the days of watching future student organization events, performances, athletic competitions, I.S. celebrations and Commencement in person.”

As vice president, she serves as a member of the President’s cabinet and oversees the Dean of Students’ Office, Student Rights and Responsibilities, Longbrake Student Wellness Center, Security and Protective Services (SPS), Residence Life, Lowry Center and Student Activities, and advises Scot Council.

“I’m fortunate and honored to advise Scot Council and serve as the Posse Liaison and I’ve enjoyed our time together over the past semester,” added Hernández. “Students who want to chat should feel free to reach out to DOS@wooster.edu for a link to my virtual office hours on Tuesdays from 2-3 p.m. or to schedule an appointment. Go Scots!”

Prior to Wooster, Dean Hernández spent 13 years in a variety of leadership roles at DePauw University, most recently as Dean of Students. At DePauw, she created strong residential communities through a strategic housing master planning process, established the Justin and Darrianne Christian Center for Diversity and Inclusion, improved programmatic offerings and services through assessment of student satisfaction, and served on the DePauw Dialogue steering committee for their annual day dedicated to talking about equity and inclusion.

Hernández served in a variety of residential life roles at both large and mid-size public institutions previous to her time at DePauw.

Posted in News on January 26, 2021.