Ohio University has named Kathy Fahl interim dean of students

Interim Vice President for Student Affairs Terry Hogan has named Kathy Fahl interim dean of students. This news follows Patti McSteen’s announced plans to step down from her role, and is part of several staffing transitions within the Ohio University Division of Student Affairs.

Fahl, who has been serving as the interim associate dean of students, has been a part of the Division of Student Affairs since 2018. During her time at OHIO, she has also held the position of assistant dean of students and has led initiatives such as the launching of the Basic Needs program, which reached more than 1,000 under-resourced students in the first year.

Fahl previously worked for the University of Oklahoma from 2008 through 2018, holding positions such as director of the Gender + Equity Center, and prior to joining higher education, worked 12 years in the nonprofit sector. She earned her bachelor’s degree in social work from Michigan State University and her master’s degree in social work from Wayne State University.

“Kathy is a tremendous asset to the Division of Student Affairs, and her leadership will provide a smooth transition for the department,” Hogan said. “She is committed to helping OHIO students succeed, and I am confident that she will effectively lead the Office of the Dean of Students in its efforts to support all of our students.”

Under Fahl’s leadership, the Office of the Dean of Students will continue oversight of Community Standards and Student Responsibility, Survivor Advocacy Program, Basic Needs and the Margaret Boyd Scholars Program. She will begin serving as the interim dean of students on Feb. 9.

Other announced changes in the Division of Student Affairs that will take effect on Feb. 9 include:

• Kim Rouse, director of the Survivor Advocacy Program, has been named as the interim assistant dean of students.  In this position, Rouse will assume responsibility for oversight of the Basic Needs program. In addition, she will continue to serve as the director of the Survivor Advocacy Program and will take on additional responsibilities.
• Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs Imants Jaunarajs will assume oversight for the Campus Involvement Center and Sorority and Fraternity Life.
• Assistant Dean Taylor Tackett will now work with the Council of Student Leaders and with planning for Bobcat Student Orientation. 
• Assistant Dean Chad Barnhardt will assume responsibility for advising Student Senate.