University of New Mexico. Dean of Students Office

The Dean of Students (DOS) Office was established by University President James F. Zimmerman at the beginning of his tenure in 1927, an early example of the dedication to improving student life and retention that Zimmerman would display throughout his administration. The first Dean of Students was John D. Clark, chair of the Chemistry Department and former Dean of Men. The first Vice President for Student Affairs was Harold Lavender, who undertook the position in 1968 under President Ferrel Heady. Currently, the Dean of Students and Assistant DOS serve under the Vice President for Student Affairs within the Division of Student Affairs. The Division oversees all aspects of student life including academic support services, campus housing, childcare, health care, career services, the student union, and student organizations-including fraternities, sororities, and honor societies.