Ensuring an enriching, memorable student experience is not an easy task. As the new dean of students, Ricardo Hall is the bearer of this weighty but rewarding responsibility. Formerly the associate dean of students at Wake Forest University, Hall will oversee judicial affairs, the Center for Alcohol and Other Drug Education, Greek life, campus chaplains, crisis management, student-community relations, and the Undergraduate Honor Council at UM.

A native of Cleveland, Ohio, Hall earned a Ph.D. in educational leadership from Clemson University and has held leadership positions in residence life and student affairs at several institutions. Treating all students fairly and with respect is his signature strength, as is the pursuit of multicultural harmony.

“Students here understand that they are in a special place in terms of diversity,” Hall says. “But are the people from these diverse groups communicating effectively? As administrators we have to be intentional about getting students to interact outside of their comfort zones.”

Among Hall’s immediate initiatives is an analysis of the Student Rights and Res-ponsibilities handbook and other student life policies.

Hall’s predecessor, William Sandler, retired following four decades at the University and a 17-year term as dean of students.