Bill McDonald announces retirement as Dean of Students

Bill McDonald, who serves as dean of students at the University of Georgia, has announced his plans to retire on February 28, 2023.

McDonald became dean of students in January 2011. He is known as a strong student advocate who meets with student groups and individual students on a daily basis.

Over the years as dean, he has supported various Student Affairs departments, including the Disability Resource Center, Engagement, Leadership, and Service, Greek Life, Multicultural Services and Programs, the Pride Center, Student Care and Outreach, Student Transitions, the Student Veterans Resource Center, the Tate Student Center, Student Conduct, and University Testing Services.

“I am very thankful for my time at UGA and am honored to retire from an institution I admire so much,” said McDonald. “UGA has the resources and will to sustain a world-class educational environment that is fully embodied in the daily lives of our students, faculty and staff. It has been a joy to be a part of this endeavor.”

In addition to his supervisory roles, McDonald has administered UGA’s Freedom of Expression Policy, advised the Student Government Association, chaired the Behavioral Assessment and Response Council (BARC), served as the designated sexual assault appeals hearing officer, and he has been Student Affairs’ liaison to the Campus Ministry Association. Dean McDonald has also held a graduate faculty appointment in the Mary Frances Early College of Education.

Bryson Henriott, president of the Student Government Association, said that Dean McDonald’s contributions to the university will be remembered for a long time.

“Dr. Bill is the definition of student-focused,” said Henriott. “He constantly goes out of his way to get to know every student he can and meets them all wherever they are at. He is a prime example of the enormous impact one person can have on many others.”

During McDonald’s tenure, UGA has greatly enhanced student support and services, particularly for student veterans, first generation students, and students from diverse backgrounds and experiences.

Vice President for Student Affairs Victor K. Wilson said that McDonald is the consummate dean of students.

“His care and advocacy are always on display, and he clearly demonstrates that students are his first priority,” said Victor K. Wilson, vice president for student affairs. “Dean of Students is one of the toughest jobs on campus, and Bill has done it with grace, humor, and great energy for over a decade.”

Details about next steps for the position will be announced at a later date, and will be posted to studentaffairs.uga.edu.