News Article

Engineering student programs and services director named

 

Joel Johnson joined the College of Engineering on July 16 in a newly established position, director of engineering student programs and services (SPS). As SPS director, Johnson will manage three major areas in the college: enrollment services and precollegiate programs, engineering student services, and scholarships.

“This new position is strategically important to the college’s commitment to provide an integrated array of programs and services for undergraduate engineering students, starting early and continuing through graduation,” said Diane Rover, associate dean for academic and student affairs and professor of electrical and computer engineering. “Our success as a college is tied to student success, and that is anchored in recruitment and retention programs and begins with precollege programs for youth. Joel has extensive experience with various student services at several universities. Faculty, staff, and students will find that he’s a superb addition to the college and someone they enjoy working with.”

Johnson comes to Iowa State from Minnesota State University, Mankato, where he has been director of the Office of First Year Experience since 2000. In this capacity, he has served as a member of the campus enrollment management team and directed campuswide retention efforts. He also was responsible for oversight of such areas as new student orientation, undeclared academic advising, and learning communities. Prior to joining Minnesota State University, he spent five years as a residential life hall director at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln.

“I am excited to join the College of Engineering team and serve the engineering students at Iowa State,” Johnson said. “Throughout my interview process and interactions with the faculty and staff, I have been very impressed with the commitment to student development and success. Having worked in collaboration with both student and academic affairs on first year retention and enrollment for the past eight years, this position is an intriguing and exciting opportunity.”

Johnson, who grew up in Mt. Pleasant, Iowa, earned his MS in college student personnel at Western Illinois University in 1994.

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