Eric Atkinson named as next UGA Dean of Students
Eric Atkinson, currently Associate Vice President for Student Affairs, has been named the next Dean of Students at the University of Georgia.
Current Dean of Students Bill McDonald will retire on February 28, 2023, and Atkinson’s appointment is effective March 1.
The Division of Student Affairs will unite Atkinson’s current administrative responsibilities with his additional responsibilities as part of a newly enhanced student support and engagement portfolio for the Dean of Students.
Atkinson will directly supervise University Housing and two associate deans. Current Associate Dean of Students Jan Barham will continue to supervise the Tate Student Center, Student Transitions, and Engagement, Leadership, and Service. A newly created associate dean position will oversee the Student Veterans Resource Center, the Greek Life Office, and the Office of Student Conduct. The new associate dean will also serve as chair of the Behavioral Assessment and Response Council (BARC).
“Eric’s immense experience, knowledge, and skill make him a stellar individual for this role,” said Vice President for Student Affairs Victor K. Wilson. “He has always been and remains singularly focused on providing the best experience possible for UGA students. As we look to the future and focus on the work needed to maintain student success, I am more than encouraged that Eric will be extremely successful in meeting every challenge.”
Atkinson has held numerous positions in UGA’s Division of Student Affairs since 1999, serving as Assistant Vice President beginning in 2013, and as Associate Vice President since 2015.
“There is no better place on Earth to go to college than the University of Georgia” said Atkinson. “We owe it to our amazing students to provide every opportunity and resource to be successful, to build community, and to make lifelong memories.”
Atkinson is an alumnus of the University of Georgia, where he earned his master’s and doctoral degrees in student affairs leadership. He received his undergraduate degree from Troy State University.
