Monica Carson Sheriff, a seasoned leader in student affairs, organizational leadership, and residential education management, has been named Hollins University’s new Dean of Students. Sheriff is excited to join the university’s Student Success, Well-Being, and Belonging team.
As Dean of Students, Sheriff will oversee a broad portfolio, including the Office of Housing and Residence Life, Orientation, Student Conduct, Student Activities, Student Success Coaches, the University Care Team, and several support programs managed by the Dean of Students Office. Additionally, Sheriff will manage parents/family engagement, ensuring Hollins parents/families are supported and aware of resources for their students.
“Monica is a dynamic leader who brings critical skills in conflict management, student conduct, student engagement strategies, policy development, assessment, and advocacy,” said Gary L. Brown, Ph.D., vice president for student success, well-being, and belonging. “I am excited about the contributions she will make in enhancing the student experience for Hollins students.”
Sheriff’s career in higher education spans more than a decade, with expertise in student housing management, program development, assessment, co-curricular engagement, budget management, crisis management, and residential curriculum implementation. Before joining Hollins, she served as director of residence life at Saint Louis University, where she led a team of more than 200 professional, graduate, and paraprofessional staff while collaborating with faculty to enhance student engagement beyond the classroom.
Her leadership experience also includes roles as director of residence life and student conduct at Cabrini University and associate director of residence life at Lehigh University, among other student affairs positions. Sheriff holds a B.A. in Political Science with a minor in Psychology and a concentration in Public Administration from Fayetteville State University. She also earned an M.S. in Nonprofit Management with a concentration in Higher Education Administration from Northeastern University.
“I am truly honored to join Hollins and serve as an advocate and resource for our incredible students,” Sheriff said. “I believe that student success extends beyond the classroom. It’s about creating spaces where students feel valued, supported, and empowered to take risks, lead, and grow. My goal is to ensure that every student at Hollins has the resources and encouragement to reach their full potential, regardless of their background. Our students are the heart of this university, and I am eager to listen, collaborate, and advocate for their needs.”
