The URI community welcomed Mary Jo Gonzales, assistant vice president for student affairs and dean of students, in April. With more than 15 years’ experience leading higher education initiatives, “Dr. Gonzales impressed everyone at URI with her enthusiasm and dedication to students,” said Vice President of Student Affairs Thomas Dougan.

Gonzales joined the URI community from her previous position as associate dean of students at Iowa State University, where she managed the Academic Success Center, as well as Multicultural Student Affairs, federal TRiO Student Support Services, Student Disability Resources, National Student Exchange, and the Writing and Media Center. She received her B.A. in speech communication from San Jose State University, and her M.A. in communication and Ph.D. in education from Washington State University.