University of Utah President Ruth Watkins announced that Lori K. McDonald has been named vice president for student affairs.

“Lori has earned the trust and respect of the U community through creative, skillful leadership and through her capacity to build vibrant partnerships with virtually every major office and academic unit on our campus,” Watkins said. “She is widely recognized for innovative approaches to enhancing the student experience, supporting all aspects of student life and promoting education and training in critical areas for students, staff and faculty, including diversity and inclusion.”

McDonald, who is currently associate vice president and dean of students at the U, will assume her new position on July 1, 2019. She succeeds Barb Snyder, who is retiring in June after serving as vice president for student affairs for 20 years. McDonald was selected following a rigorous national search.

“I believe the vice president for student affairs is in a unique position to significantly impact the climate, strategic development and public identity of campus and I am honored to have the opportunity to do so at the University of Utah,” McDonald said. “I am committed to doing all I can to facilitate a healthy, collaborative environment so our students are able to succeed in their intellectual pursuits.”

McDonald joined the university in 1997 and has served in various roles within student affairs. She was appointed the associate vice president and dean of students in 2013.

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