SEASON 1, Ep. 8 Dr. Mary Beth Williams, Vice President Of Student Affairs, Millersville University

Suzan and Audra interview Dr. Mary Beth Williams, Vice President for Student Affairs at Millersville University. Dr. Williams narrates her unique journey as a first-generation college student, emphasizing how her struggles and experiences significantly influence her current role in higher education. As VP for Student Affairs, Dr. Williams has a deep focus on mental health, student engagement, inclusion, and equity. She affirms the importance of seeking and valuing student input when developing initiatives, ensuring they are responsive to the changing behavior, preferences, and needs of today's students. She raises critical points on the shifting landscape of student engagement in the era post-COVID-19, noting the decline of Greek Life and the evolving patterns of student interactions. Dr. Williams discusses strategies that the university is employing to foster a sense of belonging among students, tailored to their unique needs and experiences. The conversation also explores the challenges faced by faculty and administrators amidst the rising mental health crisis on campuses, offering insights on how to mitigate these issues. Lastly, Dr. Williams speaks of her commitment to personal self-care, highlighting its centrality in her leadership style as a demonstration of resilience and adaptability in the demanding field of higher education.Dr. Mary Beth WilliamsDr. Mary Beth Williams is a dynamic leader with over 20 years of experience in higher education, specializing in student affairs. As Vice President for Student Affairs, she oversees a diverse portfolio including student welfare, campus life, student leadership & organizations and various campus task forces. Dr. Williams is recognized for her strategic planning, crisis management, and commitment to student-centered leadership. She holds a Ph.D. in Higher Education Administration and has spearheaded initiatives promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion. Her expertise in emotional intelligence and academic success has shaped her approach to student development. Dr. Williams fosters collaboration between faculty, staff, and students, ensuring a supportive and empowering environment for all.Millersville University website. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-beth-williams-027349b7/ This podcast is sponsored by Viv Higher Education About Viv Higher EducationViv Higher Education is a Boston-based, female-owned comprehensive marketing agency specializing in higher education. With expertise in strategic planning, creative asset development, and media campaigns, we focus on enrollment-centric initiatives. Our approach is grounded in industry best practices, ensuring precision in reaching target audiences. We have extensive experience in marketing to diverse groups, including high school students, Hispanic, military, LGBTQ+, international students, and online learners. Navigating the complex landscapes of university environments is second nature to us, and we prioritize fostering collaborations that yield mutually beneficial outcomes. With a personable, nimble, and highly responsive approach, we deliver tailored solutions to empower organizations to achieve their objectives.Website: https://vivhied.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/viv-higher-ed/