Linden Dudley & Wanda Johnson
New Directors in Student Affairs
At the conclusion of open searches, as of December 1, there are two new directors in Student Affairs. Linden Dudley was named Director of International Student Life and Wanda Johnson was named Director of Multicultural Services and Programs. Let’s learn a little bit more about them!
Are you from Georgia? If not, where are you from?
Wanda: I am from Madison, GA (Morgan County)/ However, my family and I currently reside in Milledgeville, GA (Baldwin County)
Linden: I am originally from Birmingham, Alabama, but have lived in Georgia for 15 years. Athens is the home I have made with my family.
What’s your favorite UGA tradition?
Linden: Ringing the Chapel Bell! I love to hear the celebrations echo across North Campus.
Wanda: Ringing the Bell! That is the sweet sound of accomplishing your goals!
What three things do you love most about your job?
Wanda: Students, Students, Students.
Linden: Working with the students is the best part of my work. They are truly inspiring and my reason for coming to work each day. I also love that we have an incredibly supportive staff across campus and within the Division. Lastly, it would probably be the beauty of our campus.
What might be something that you would like other staff to know about your job?
Linden: That I love collaboration! Connections and partnerships across campus are critical to our students’ success, and so I look forward to meeting other faculty and staff across campus.
Wanda: It is the best job! We get to support students in their journey of discovering, educating, and advocating for cultural diversity and inclusion. Each day is a new opportunity to make an impact in someone’s life and create change. It does not get any better than that!
What are your hobbies or favorite things to do for fun?
Wanda: I enjoy spending quality time with my family. We have five-year-old twins and that is such a rarity for me right now with finishing my doctorate and commuting. In addition, I love to cook and read for leisure (which is also a rarity right now!).
Linden: Travel is my favorite thing to do for fun, whether it is around the US or abroad. I love to explore with my 2 children both in town and on trips. Mostly though, I stay active through yoga, hiking, and strength training. I also have an artistic side and love music, museums, and have several creative pursuits.
What is your favorite spot on campus or in Athens?
Linden: I love taking walks through the Founders Garden, especially in the spring.
Wanda: The Intersection in Tate Student Center. It is a place where students can be their authentic selves. It promotes diversity through dialogue and engagement. Such a wonderful space on campus!
What is the coolest thing you have ever done and why?
Wanda: Taking a flight! I know this seems crazy, but my first-time flying was this past March. After years of missing out on numerous trips and vacations, my cohort mate finally got me on a plane! I was terrified, but the experience was great. Now, I look forward to my next flight!
Linden: I have done many cool things in my life, from my involvement in the music and fashion industries to traveling solo across the globe. But the coolest thing I’ve ever done is become a parent. My children have been my greatest teachers and ensure than I remain enthusiastic and curious about our world.
What is your favorite quote?
Linden: “Be fearless in the pursuit of what sets your soul on fire.”
Wanda: “Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.” -Harriet Tubman
Thank you so much to Linden and Wanda for participating in this Staff Spotlight and Congratulations to both of them on their new positions!
Nominate someone to be recognized for their hard work!
Staff Spotlights: Sharing the stories of staff in UGA Student Affairs
Staff Spotlights
Mildred Anderson
Gary Glasser
Tate Student Crew
Charles Clark
Tanesha Hitchcock
Rosendo Alvarezarmenta
Sarah Kesler
Brian Williams
The Tate Facilities Team
Maggie Fitzsimmons
Tim Smith
Missy Jackson
Worth VanLinden
Carolyn Arnold
Al Jeffers
Liana Natochy
Ben Cecil
Lance Haynie
Lori Crawford
Ricky Boggs
Lisa Williamson
Nicole McConnell
Michael Wharton
Laronda Faust
Taylor Cain
Tori Whitaker
Mary Eberhard