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Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Chancellor James T. Minor, PhD, has named Miriam Roccia, MPA, as Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs. Roccia’s appointment is effective November 25, 2024. Roccia has served as Interim Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs since December 2022, navigating the complexities of post-COVID challenges while reinforcing the University’s focus on student success.

“Miriam’s unwavering commitment to student success and well-being make her the ideal leader for this important role,” said Minor. “She has moved with intention to transform the structure and support systems within Student Affairs. I am confident that her vision will continue to enhance the experiences of our students.”

Roccia joined SIUE in June 2018 as the Associate Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs, bringing with her a wealth of experience from her previous roles at the University of Missouri-St. Louis (UMSL) and the University of Wisconsin-River Falls. In her current position, she has been instrumental in strengthening relationships with senior leaders, academic partners, staff, faculty and students.

“Public higher education holds a profound responsibility to provide high-quality, affordable access to a college degree which remains critically important for creating social and economic mobility for individuals,” Roccia emphasized. “I am honored to serve as Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs and to continue working collaboratively with the SIUE community to enhance the educational experience for all of our students.”

Roccia has 25 years of progressive and complex administrative leadership, working with students prior to SIUE in the Division of Student Affairs as the Associate Dean of Students at UMSL from July 2012 until 2018. As UMSL’s Director of Student Life, Office of Student Involvement from 2007 until 2012, she eliminated a budget deficit of $500,000 and created a surplus in a three-year period.

During her tenure at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls from 2003 until 2007, where she worked as Co-Director for First Year Experience and as Involvement Coordinator, Roccia developed a passion and commitment for working in public higher education, helping students succeed with opportunities and challenges. She has leveraged the collection of these professional experiences to elevate Welcome Week and Convocation here at SIUE and has demonstrated a firm commitment to the strategic priorities of the University.

The office of Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs oversees the following departments, services and programs: Campus Recreation, Career Development Center, Cougar Cupboard, Cougar Store, Counseling Services, Dean of Students Office, Dining Services, Early Childhood Center, Health Service, Kimmel Belonging and Engagement Hub (jointly reporting to ADEI), Morris University Center and Student Success Center, New Student and Family Programs, Textbook Service and University Housing.

PHOTO:  Miriam Roccia, MPA, Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs at SIUE