Discuss “What we need in a Dean of Student Affairs”

As our liaison between the student body and the administration, Carnegie Mellon’s new Dean of Student Affairs should be willing — and prepared — to roll up his or her sleeves, work hard, and become a genuine advocate for the students. As former dean Michael Murphy did, the new dean should become familiar with student organization leaders, attend student events, and exhibit more than just a superficial concern for the daily needs of the Carnegie Mellon campus.

Since Dean Murphy was promoted to associate vice-president last April, Carnegie Mellon students have largely found this relationship with Interim Dean Jennifer Church. Though she is serving only temporarily, Church has already established rapport with students by attending student...