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Catherine Koverola, president of 51��Ʒ��Ƶ’s and campuses, has named vice president and dean of student affairs at the 51��Ʒ��Ƶ at Bradford.

In the role, Cruse will oversee career, counseling and health services; new student orientation and first-year experience; residence life and housing; student engagement, leadership development and community engagement; and student care and conduct. She will also continue to serve as a member of the President’s Cabinet.

“Since she joined us last fall, Michele has proven to be a strong, compassionate and transformative leader, whose priority is the students,” said Koverola. “During the spring semester, when we all left campus to work remotely, she worked tirelessly with others in Student Affairs to help our students with the transition and keep them engaged.”

Previously, Cruse was the associate dean of student affairs and experiential education, a role she began in November; she has been an integral part of the team determining that students could safely return to campus in the fall and planning for their return.

“I am very honored to be here at 51��Ʒ��Ƶ-Bradford, empowering every student to succeed through meaningful and inclusive experiences. It’s my ultimate goal to ensure that we provide students with a campus environment where every student feels valued, respected and that they belong here at 51��Ʒ��Ƶ-Bradford,” Cruse said.

Cruse comes to 51��Ʒ��Ƶ-Bradford from Portland (Oregon) Community College, where she served as the dean of student development. She has previously served as a director of TRIO Student Support Services at Portland Community College, led student accounts, and was an adjunct instructor. She has owned her own business and served as co-founder of an organization focused on workshops and education for community members, women, disenfranchised youth and those in alternative education.