By Jacob Brown, Editor-in-Chief
Just before the start of the new academic year, Newman University announced that it had hired Megan Chambers as its new dean of students.
Chambers replaced Andi Giesen, who had been in the role since February 2023. In April, Giesen was hired to be the next Superintendent of Schools for South Barber USD 255.
Chambers most recently worked in a supervisory role at Koch Technology Solutions, but much of her career has been spent in higher education.
She previously worked at Kansas State University as a director of recruitment and at Butler Community College, where she held roles in admissions, institutional research and student engagement.
When the opportunity at Newman became available, Chambers said, the timing felt right.
“I was drawn to the close-knit community and having the opportunity again to work directly with students,” she said.
President of SGA Melissa Arguijo, was first introduced to Chambers during the interview process. Arguijo said that she thought Chambers was a great fit because she had experience both in the academic and professional worlds. She said that Chambers seemed intrigued and passionate during her interview.
“Instead of the interview committee just asking questions, Megan was also asking questions to learn more about student life,” Arguijo said.
Chambers also serves as the adviser for SGA.
As she begins her new role, Chambers said her first priority is simple: listening.
Chambers said she wants to hear directly from students about what they love about Newman.
She also wants to hear ideas about how the university could improve. From those conversations, she said, she hopes to create more opportunities for students to become involved, connect with one another and feel a stronger sense of belonging within the Newman community.
One of the challenges of the position, Chambers said, is learning how the many different parts of student life come together.
“Student life falls under a lot of different areas,” she said.
As she settles into the position, Chambers said, she is learning about its people and processes. While there is a lot to learn at once, she said,she enjoys asking questions and learning new things.
“It’s a challenge I’m excited about,” Chambers said.
Chambers' office is located in Dugan Library in the Student Life area, Room 228. She is normally in the office from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. time date place Mondays through Fridays, unless she is in a meeting.
Chambers also hopes to make herself visible and accessible throughout campus. She said students will likely see her at athletic events, Student Life activities and other events around campus.
She wants students to know they can reach out whenever they need help, have a question or simply want to say hello.
“So please come say hello,” Chambers said.
Students also can also reach Chambers by phone at 316-942-4291, ext. 2453, or by email at chambersm@newmanu.edu.
PHOTO: AJ Bonilla, Staff Photographer
