Dear Carleton Faculty, Staff, and Students,
I write to share the news that Vice President for Student Development and Dean of Students Hudlin Wagner has announced her decision to retire from the College at the end of the 2014-15 academic year. Notwithstanding her fierce devotion to Carleton—and Carleton students!––Hudlin has decided that this is the right moment to step down and write a fulfilling new chapter in her life. While I’m very sorry to see her retire, I’ll confess I draw some comfort from the fact that, instead of leaving Carleton next summer, she’ll be taking on some special College-wide projects in 2015-16.
Hudlin is an invaluable member of our community, a wonderful leader and an inspiring presence on our campus. I have never known a Student Life professional who is so beloved by generations of students. She has a vast array of skills and broad experience in student affairs and education. Her career arc is evidence of her talent and dedication. After her arrival at Carleton in 1990 as Associate Dean of Students, she took on broader and more significant leadership roles, first as Interim Co-Dean of Students and then, since 2005, as Dean of Students with expanded responsibilities as Vice President for Student Development in 2008.
Hudlin combines great personal integrity with a keen sense of humor, and her excellent work has made her widely-respected and trusted by colleagues here in Northfield and nationwide. Given these qualities, it is not surprising that she has been avidly sought as an expert on student life issues by many other colleges and universities.
In light of the importance and prominence of the post of Vice President for Student Development and Dean of Students, it’s essential that we make a brilliant next hire. To that end, this fall we shall launch a nationwide search for Hudlin’s successor. I have asked Associate Dean and Professor George Shuffelton to chair the search committee, and we’re in the process of assembling its membership.
In the coming months, I am certain there will be many occasions to thank, honor and celebrate (and probably even laugh with and embarrass!) Hudlin. But for now, please join me in wishing her the very best as she begins to plan for her exciting next steps.
President Steve Poskanzer