Associate Dean Takes on Broader Role

The Office of Student Affairs has promoted Dr. Cynthia Jenkins to assistant vice president for student affairs. Jenkins, an alumna of UT Dallas, has served as associate dean of students since January 2009.

“In a short period of time, Dr. Jenkins has done an amazing job of integrating the Office of Student Volunteerism, the Living Learning Communities and the Rhetoric 1101 program,” said Darrelene Rachavong, vice president for student affairs. “It just makes sense to have obviously related programs under the same leadership.”

Rachavong said Jenkins’ duties will expand to include overseeing Residential Life, New Student Programs, Transfer Student Services, Freshman and Transfer Student Orientations, the Parent and Family Association and the Sophomore Year Experience.

“The position offers me a tremendous opportunity to contribute even more to the positive experiences students have at UT Dallas,” Jenkins said. “I am so excited to bring together all of the areas that reflect my passion for helping students connect with the university and become involved in the campus community through leadership and engaged achievement. This position also enables me to work with an incredible team of dedicated staff who share my vision of what we can give students now, and what we can create for the future of UT Dallas.”

Jenkins has taught courses at the University since 1998, including Rhet 1101 and psychology. She served as director of undergraduate advising and continues to serve as a clinical assistant professor in the School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences.

Jenkins earned her PhD in human development and communication sciences from the University in 1991.