KENNESAW, Ga. | Aug 18, 2020

Ronald Briggs brings 15 years of student success experience to the University

Following a nationwide search, Kennesaw State University has appointed Ronald Briggs as associate vice president for student affairs and dean of students.

Briggs' 15-year career in student affairs has included student success positions at the University of Toledo, Morehouse College, and most recently at Arizona State University (ASU) where he held several positions including associate dean of students, assistant dean of students, and executive director of the TRIO Student Success program.

“Dr. Briggs possesses the same student-first mission that we are committed to at Kennesaw State,” said KSU President Pamela Whitten. “His background also demonstrates a dedication to enhancing the student experience and ensuring that all students receive the support they need to succeed at KSU and beyond. I look forward to his leadership and contributions.”

Previously, he served as ASU’s senior director of residential life, where he was responsible for the long-range planning and implementation of student retention initiatives and residential life processes. In his role, he also oversaw more than 700 staff members and 41 residential communities, which houses over 17,000 student residents.

“Dr. Briggs brings KSU students, faculty, and staff a long record of success in finding the best ways to serve and support our students,” said KSU Vice President for Student Affairs Eric Arneson. “He will be a champion for student success and help us create a purposeful and inclusive community. We are very fortunate to have him join our Owl Nation.”

As associate vice president and dean of students for KSU, Briggs will oversee the office of the dean of students, student conduct and academic integrity, parent and family programs, behavioral case management, policy and compliance, disability services and the CARE team. In his role, he will provide leadership and vision for the University’s strategic and integrated functions related to student advocacy, support, accountability, and intervention; oversee budget development and management for all units within the office of the dean of students and the student activities budget advisory committee (SABAC) and advise the management of the behavioral response team, which includes university-wide crisis/emergency management and support/advocacy for students and their families.

“I’m excited about the opportunity to work with KSU students and the members of the KSU community,” Briggs said. “I look forward to assisting in making an impact in the lives of students and the overall Owl Community.”

Briggs has a Ph.D. in higher education from Arizona State University, where his dissertation focused on first-year college student retention. He earned his master’s in education and a bachelor’s in mechanical engineering technology from the University of Toledo.

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A leader in innovative teaching and learning, Kennesaw State University offers undergraduate, graduate and doctoral degrees to its more than 47,000 students. Kennesaw State is a member of the University System of Georgia with 11 academic colleges. The university’s vibrant campus culture, diverse population, strong global ties and entrepreneurial spirit draw students from throughout the country and the world. Kennesaw State is a Carnegie-designated doctoral research institution (R2), placing it among an elite group of only 7 percent of U.S. colleges and universities with an R1 or R2 status. For more information, visit kennesaw.edu.