About the Division of Student Affairs
A. History
During the first eighty years, Texas A&M University was an
all-male, military institution with all enrolled students required to join the Corps of
Cadets. During that time, the Commandant of the Corps of Cadets was responsible for most
student activities and services.
In the 1960’s, Texas A&M University made membership in the
Corps of Cadets optional and began to admit women. The Commandant continued to supervise
all activities related to the Corps and a Dean of Students was appointed to address
"civilian" student activities and services and student discipline. A Dean of
Women and a Dean of Men reported to the Dean of Students. A Housing Manager supervised the
central housing office and counselors/advisors were located in the residence hall areas.
In 1973, due to anticipated growth in the student body, the University
saw the need to create a vice president position to oversee all the student service
functions of the campus. In August 1973, Dr. John J. Koldus became the first Vice
President for Student Services. Dr. Koldus designed and built the Division of Student
Services. He oversaw tremendous changes in the division in the next twenty years. On
February 1, 1995, the name of the Division was changed to the Division of Student Affairs
and Dr. J. Malon Southerland was named Vice President.
The Division of Student Affairs is comprised of thirteen departments
– Office of the Commandant, Memorial Student Center, Multicultural Services,
Recreational Sports, Residence Life, Special Events Facilities, Student Activities,
Student Counseling Services, Student Financial Aid, Student Health Services, Student Life,
Student Life Studies, and University Art Collections and Exhibitions.
B. Division Mission
Facilitate student’s learning both in and out of the classroom by
providing continuously improving, high quality services and developmental opportunities
while fostering an inclusive campus community in support of the educational mission of
Texas A&M University.
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