Columbia College President Dr. David Russell recently announced the promotion of Dr. Dave Roberts to Vice President for Student Experience and Dean of Students. A dedicated leader in higher education, Roberts carries more than two decades of experience supporting student development and campus engagement.
Roberts has advanced in leadership at Columbia College since joining the Student Affairs staff in 2011, most recently serving as Associate Vice President for Student Experience and Dean of Students.
“Dr. Roberts has long been a cornerstone of the Columbia College community,” said Russell. “His unwavering dedication to student success, thoughtful leadership and strategic vision have made a lasting impact on our main campus. I am confident that under his continued leadership, the student experience at our institution will thrive in new and meaningful ways.”
In this enhanced role, Roberts will oversee the Division of Student Experience, which includes student conduct, student engagement, health and well-being, Stafford Library, the Grossnickle Career Services Center, the Academic Achievement Center, residential life, and leadership development, among other areas. He also serves on the College’s senior leadership team to ensure that student voices nationwide remain at the center of institutional decision-making.
“I am honored to serve Columbia College in this new capacity,” said Roberts. “I have enjoyed the privilege of working alongside our remarkable students, faculty and staff over the past decade. I am excited to continue advocating for our students and helping them find belonging, purpose and leadership opportunities both on and off campus.”
Throughout his tenure, Roberts has led numerous campus-wide initiatives that have significantly enhanced the student experience. He played a key role in redesigning the college’s first-year curriculum to boost retention and created enduring campus traditions like Storm the Gate and Hey Day. Roberts was also instrumental in shaping the College’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring continuity of services while prioritizing student safety and mental health.
Roberts holds a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis from the University of Missouri. He also holds a Master of Education in College Student Affairs from the University of South Florida and a Bachelor of Science in Education from Valdosta State University. Prior to joining Columbia College, Roberts held leadership roles at the University of Missouri, Southern Methodist University and the University of South Florida.
