The Student Experience division announced the appointment of Steven T. Herndon as assistant vice president of student living, beginning on Jan. 23.
Steven T. Herndon
In this role, Herndon will oversee all aspects of the student living program, including residential life and off-campus and apartment living. Herndon will also partner with Academic Affairs in the development and delivery of more than 20 living learning communities (LLC).
Herndon joins Syracuse University from the University of Dayton, where he served for nearly 20 years in progressive leadership roles within residential life and housing, most recently serving as the assistant vice president for student development and executive director of housing and residence life. Prior to that, Herndon was associate and assistant dean of students and executive director of housing and residential life.
“Steve brings deep expertise and considerable thought leadership in residential education, housing and student development to our division’s leadership team. His fresh perspective and extensive experience will help us continue to build community and keep students at the center of our work during their years at Syracuse University,” says Allen Groves, senior vice president and chief student experience officer.
Among his accomplishments at the University of Dayton, Herndon played a pivotal role in developing and implementing a transformed vision for residential learning. Under his leadership, the residence life and housing team significantly improved training, created a developmentally-sequenced residential curriculum and enhanced processes for special interest housing and living learning communities.
Throughout his tenure, Herndon prioritized collaboration with students, residential staff, university partners and faculty to positively impact students’ learning within their living environment.
“The living experience is a critical part of students’ overall experience, and the work happening in the residence halls, on South Campus, and in the neighborhoods contributes significantly to students’ overall development. I look forward to partnering with the talented staff and student leaders in Student Living, as well as colleagues across campus, to continue enhancing the development of all students as individuals and community members throughout their living experience,” says Herndon.
In addition to his residential education experience, Herndon has taught courses at the University of Dayton, University of Arizona and North Carolina State University, focusing on student development, first-year experience in higher education, and examining diversity through Spike Lee films.
An expert in residential life and education and a sought-after speaker about the future of the Student Affairs profession, Herndon has been a regular presenter, educator and leader within the American College Personnel Association (ACPA), James C. Grimm National Housing Training Institute, Association of College and University Housing Officers-International and National Association of Student Personnel Administrators. He was also recognized as a 2022 Diamond Honoree of the ACPA.
A two-time graduate of North Carolina State University, Herndon earned a bachelor’s degree in English and a master’s degree in English with a concentration in African-American literature.
