Tyre "T.J." McDowell Jr. has been named assistant vice chancellor and dean of students in the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Division of Student Life.
The appointment was announced Jan. 21 by Dee Dee Anderson, vice chancellor for student life. Pending approval by the University of Nebrasa Board of Regents, the appointment is effective Jan. 31.
“T.J. brings a wide range of experiences in K-12, nonprofit leadership, private higher education, public higher education and city government, which have positioned him to deeply understand the importance of advocating for and supporting students,” Anderson said. “He will be an integral part of our student success efforts by fostering a culture of care and ensuring students experiencing challenges receive compassion and resources.”
Previously McDowell served as senior adviser and chief of staff to Leirion Gaylor Baird, the mayor of Lincoln; assistant vice chancellor for student life and leadership and acting Title IX coordinator at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln; assistant dean of students, associate vice president and vice president of campus community at Nebraska Wesleyan University; executive director of the Clyde Malone Community Center; and executive director of Lighthouse.
“I am excited to return to UNL as part of the Student Life team,” McDowell said. “I look forward to supporting and advocating for all students and ensuring they have the services, opportunities and support they need to achieve their educational goals.”
In the role, McDowell will serve as Nebraska’s chief student advocate, providing visionary and strategic leadership and expertise to student support services. McDowell will serve as a member of Anderson’s senior leadership team. He will provide oversight to five units in the Division of Student Life: Center for Advocacy, Response and Education; Counseling and Psychological Services; Services for Students with Disabilities; Student Conduct and Community Standards; and Student Advocacy and Support.
He holds a Bachelor of Science in sociology from Nebraska Wesleyan University, Master of Arts in education from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and certificate in education management from Harvard University.
