After months of searching, Ferris has a new face for the vice president of student affairs.
Dr. Ward-Roof, the recent dean of students at Florida State University, has accepted the position after the retirement of Don Flickinger.
The Vice President for Student Affairs Search Committee, chaired by Sara Dew and Clifton Franklund, have spent a lot of time with the candidates. After multiple interviews and student discussions, they ultimately chose Dr. Ward-Roof.
On Feb. 17, Dr. Ward-Roof will assume her new role at Ferris.
“I am thrilled to work with the current staff in the division and look forward to maintaining and building relationships throughout the University and in the community to support student success and the mission of Ferris State,” Ward-Roof said.
According to an announcement given by Ferris President David Eisler, Dr. Ward-Roof has a wide range of experience. She has worked with disability services, Greek life, alcohol and drug education, first-year programs and advising.
“Dr. Ward-Roof will be a wonderful advocate for our students and a strong leader for our student recruitment and student development programs,” Eisler said.
Dr. Ward-Roof has a bachelor’s degree in communication from Ohio University, a master’s degree in college student personnel from Bowling Green State University and a doctor of philosophy degree in educational leadership from Clemson University.
Many distinguished awards have been presented to Dr. Ward-Roof, including an Outstanding Woman Leader award and the Graduate Board of Trustees Staff Award for Excellence. Dr. Ward-Roof also has written more than 15 publications.
“I hope as vice president I can work with members of the Division of Student Affairs and the Ferris community to help others realize their goals and earn their certificate or degree that will propel them to meeting their career goals,” Ward-Roof said. “I expect the transition to be easy, except that I will have to learn how to drive in the snow again.”