Sermersheim named dean of students at Purdue
June 25, 2015
WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. — Katherine "Katie" Sermersheim has been named Purdue's dean of students, effective Aug. 1. Sermersheim will report to Beth McCuskey, vice provost for student life.
Sermersheim is currently the interim dean of students at Southern Illinois University Carbondale and has served in several capacities over her 18-year tenure. She has previously served as assistant director of student development, director of student development and associate dean of students.
She is an active member of the ACPA-College Student Educators International and NASPA, the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators. She has presented at numerous national conferences including the ACPA, NASPA, Mid-American Greek Council Association, Undergraduate Interfraternity Institute, Association of Fraternity Advisors, National Association of Campus Activities, and multiple national fraternity and sorority functions.
She received her doctorate in education with an emphasis in educational administration from Southern Illinois University Carbondale. She has a master's degree from Western Illinois University, and earned her bachelor's degree from the University of Southern Indiana.
As dean of students, Sermersheim will serve as an advocate for student issues and concerns institutionally; oversee conduct and crisis in the Office of Student Rights and Responsibilities; provide oversight to CAPS, PUSH and Fraternity, Sorority, and Cooperative Life; and establish a vision and direction for the Office of the Dean of Students as part of Student Life and in conjunction with the Teaching and Learning division of the Provost's Office.
Search committee chair Barb Frazee, executive director of University Residences, said, "Katie brings with her a unique combination of love for students as individuals and a strong understanding of the community needs as well."
Contact: Barb Frazee, 765-494-1000, bjfrazee@purdue.edu
