McDaniel College names new Dean of Students

McDaniel College has named Phillip A. Sullivan, Ph.D., as the college’s new dean of students following a national search. He assumes the role at McDaniel effective Aug. 19, 2024.

Sullivan comes to McDaniel after serving as associate dean of campus life and director of residential education and services at Oxford College of Emory University. As the chief housing and conduct officer for Emory University’s Oxford campus, he has managed the residential education and services and student conduct offices, while working closely with college leadership and others to support the residential student experience. He has also served on various committees, including the Dean’s Council and Emory’s Threat Assessment Team.

After earning his bachelor’s and master’s degrees at the University of Alabama, Sullivan spent five years working in the department of Housing and Residence Life at Kennesaw State University (KSU) in Georgia, where he worked in various roles, most recently serving as associate director. In 2019, he was named professional staff member of the year within his department. He has received awards from the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA) in 2020, 2022, and 2023.

“Dr. Sullivan’s expertise and training in student affairs, combined with his scholarly approach to his work, distinguished him among all the applicants. He has demonstrated a capacity to collaborate with faculty, staff, parents, and alumni with the goal of fostering a supportive wellness-focused environment for our students. I look forward to having him join the McDaniel community,” said McDaniel Provost Flavius R.W. Lilly.

As the dean of students at McDaniel, Sullivan will lead the student life staff, including Residence Life and the Wellness Center, and support McDaniel’s commitment to nurturing students’ personal, social, and intellectual growth. He will spearhead student well-being initiatives, collaboratively develop student programming and events, and oversee student policies and conduct.   

Sullivan obtained a Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision from the University of Georgia in 2022 and has earned certifications in diversity, equity, and inclusion. He is a member of the American College Personnel Association (ACPA), National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA), and the Southern Association for College Student Affairs. He is also a member and past chapter president of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. 

“I could not be more thrilled to be joining the McDaniel College community,” said Sullivan. “In considering career opportunities, I wanted to be in a collaborative environment that was focused on the holistic development and well-being of students. McDaniel is a vibrant community that celebrates the unique contributions of each member. The warm and genuine welcome I have received from students, faculty, and staff made coming to McDaniel an easy decision. I am honored to serve as your next Dean of Students.”