SFA names new assistant vice president, dean of students

Stephen F. Austin State University has named a new assistant vice president for student affairs to serve as dean of students. 

Andrew J. Dies recently served as dean of students at Northern Arizona University, where he was chief student conduct officer and the primary contact for students in crisis, in addition to serving on the emergency management team and the academic standards committee.

Dies previously served as dean of students and student affairs campus lead at the Armstrong and Liberty campuses of Georgia Southern University. During his higher education career, he has led or served on committees dedicated to student behavioral intervention, threat assessment, and Clery Act Compliance.

“We had a very strong applicant pool from this national search, and Andrew’s commitment to student success and advocacy stood out during the interview process,” said Dr. Brandon Frye, SFA vice president for student affairs. “He has demonstrated a commitment to helping students throughout his career, and we believe he will be a dynamic and collaborative leader focused on student support, well-being, safety, belonging, resilience and success.”

Dies received his Bachelor of Social Work from the University of Kansas at Lawrence and his Master of Education in higher education administration from North Carolina State University in Raleigh. He is currently completing his dissertation at Georgia Southern University for a doctoral degree in educational leadership.

“I’m excited to join the SFA family,” Dies said. “The student affairs team at the university is highly talented, and I look forward to working with the great students who attend SFA.” 

Dies will begin in his new role on Aug. 9, with responsibility for the development and management of Student Rights and Responsibilities, the Behavioral Intervention Team, Counseling Services, Campus Recreation and Health Services. He also will provide advisement of the Student Government Association.