Wadsworth selected as new Dean of Students

Michael Wadsworth has been officially named to the position of Dean of Students in Oakland University’s Division of Student Affairs & Diversity. He had served in the position on an interim basis since October 1 following the retirement of longtime Assistant Vice President and Dean of Students Nancy Marshall (formerly Schmitz).

“Mike has proven himself worthy in his prior roles within our department and while he was serving as our interim Dean of Students,” Glenn McIntosh, Vice President for Student Affairs and Chief Diversity Officer said. “As we conducted our search, it became clear that he was the right person to take over the position on a full-time basis.”

Wadsworth assumed his new position as Dean of Students on December 13.

"Ever since working in the Dean of Students office as a student at Oakland University, I have dreamed of one day holding this position. I am very fortunate to have had incredible role models and mentors throughout my career and am blessed to have a terrific work environment and stellar colleagues," Wadsworth said. “I look forward to continuing my work with our students as they reach new milestones and achievements in their academic careers and also helping them navigate challenges they may face along the way.”

Wadsworth added, “A big part of my experience as a student at OU came from living on campus, so I created the  Student Housing Experience Scholarship to help others have the same opportunity. People can help me make it happen by donating here.

Wadsworth joined Oakland University in August 2014 as Assistant Dean of Students and has more than 20 years of career experience in student affairs roles. In his prior position, Wadsworth handled student conduct matters and served as OU’s deputy Title IX coordinator, working to ensure compliance with federal laws prohibiting discrimination based on sex in educational programs and activities. Wadsworth has been an ombudsman; advising and counseling students as well as helping solve a wide range of problems related to the university experience.

Prior to joining OU, Wadsworth served as director for Residential Life at Albion College. He has also served in leadership roles at the University of Maryland, University of Southern Mississippi, Old Dominion University and West Virginia Wesleyan College.

A native of Durand, Michigan, Wadsworth holds a bachelor’s degree in history from Oakland University and a master’s degree in Educational Administration from Kent State University.