Dr. Mary Lynn Williamson

Vice Chancellor of Student Development named

Dr. Mary Lynn Williamson has been named the new Vice Chancellor for Student Development at UTC.

Williamson has held several leadership positions in student affairs, including Executive Assistant to the Vice President for Student Services at Tulane; Assistant Dean for Student Services at the University of Florida; Assistant Vice President for Student Services at S U N Y Old Westport; Vice President for Student Services and Assistant Professor of Education at Henderson (Arkansas) State University; and Vice President for Student Services and Associate Professor of Education at Arkansas State University.

Most recently, Williamson’s career expanded to the corporate world, primarily in data management for banks, credit card companies, insurance companies, arranging technical training, purchasing and development.

"After spending four years in the corporate world, I am absolutely thrilled to return to higher education. What I have missed has been the students. The opportunity to make a difference in their lives was the driving force for choosing my profession many years ago, and it is the driving force for my coming to UTC,” Williamson said.

Williamson's Ph.D. in Education Leadership was earned at the University of Florida. She earned an M. A. in Student Personnel Services, an M. Ed. in Guidance and Counseling and a baccalaureate in Speech and Journalism at Northwestern State University in Louisiana. She also completed the Institute for Educational Management at Harvard.

Williamson’s philosophy of serving students reflects the efforts of the staff of Student Development. "The Division of Student Development has a major responsibility in creating a healthy, positive, caring campus environment--one that cultivates the idea that learning extends beyond the classroom. I hope we can creating a learning-centered community where opportunities for collaboration are identified and expectations are communicated to students."

New and updated student housing and a newly renovated University Center at UTC also impressed Williamson.

"UTC has done a spectacular job in recent years improving the facilities, and I am pleased for the opportunity to continue that effort. Facilities play an important role in recruitment,” Williamson said.

Williamson is expected to assume her new duties at the University beforefall semester begins. Richard McDougall, who retired recently following 34 years of service to the University, last held the position.