His appointment follows an extensive national search.

Southwestern University President Jake B. Schrum remarked, “Gerald Brody is a highly accomplished student life professional who brings with him decades of experience and a breadth of knowledge that will contribute to a robust student life program at Southwestern, befitting one of the nation’s leading liberal arts colleges.”

Said Brody, “I am thrilled to be joining Southwestern University. It is a very special place with an articulated set of core values that are congruent with my own. The quality of the academic program and the overall strength of the institution and its student body are equally impressive. Ultimately, the opportunity to work under the outstanding leadership of President Schrum and alongside a dedicated, caring faculty and staff committed to the development of the whole student were paramount in my decision. I couldn’t be more excited.”

Brody has led the student life area at Alfred University since 1993, following 14 years at San Jose State University in California where he served as vice president for student affairs. Prior to that he served as director of career planning and placement at Kent State University and assistant director of career planning and placement at the University of New Hampshire. He has also taught in the Graduate Career Development Program at John F. Kennedy University and has served as a consultant to numerous companies and universities.

He received his B.A. in political science from Brown University and his M.Ed. in counseling from the University of New Hampshire.

Brody replaces Sherri Babcock, who left the vice president position last fall. Mike Leese, associate vice president for student services administration, who has spent the past nine months serving as acting vice president and dean of students, will subsequently serve as Southwestern’s associate vice president and dean of students.

Southwestern’s Office of Student Life oversees residence life, student activities, intercollegiate athletics, counseling services, health services, career services, and intramural and recreational activities.

Brody and his spouse, Abby, have two children, Hallie, 12, and Ben, 6. The family will move to Georgetown as early as late July. His appointment begins in early August.