Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students
JoNes VanHecke, Ph.D, serves as the Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students. Dr VanHecke oversees programs for all students across degree programs and levels through the direct integration of student experiences within the University’s mission. At the core of her work is a commitment to and sincere joy found in helping students reach their fullest potential. She has a passion for student development and for creating environments that steward students through their cognitive, social and identity journeys.
VanHecke earned her Ph.D. from the University of Michigan’s Center for the Study of Higher and Postsecondary Education. While at the University of Michigan, she was fortunate to work on the Wabash National Study of Liberal Arts Education. VanHecke holds a Masters degree from Indiana University, Bloomington in Higher Education Student Affairs and was awarded the Elizabeth A. Greenleaf Distinguished Alumni Award. She has a Bachelor degree from Gustavus Adolphus College. Dr. VanHecke has more than 30 years of experience as a student affairs professional. Her research interests include college student development, liberal arts education, and student affairs work at small colleges; topics on which she has written several book chapters and articles. She previously served as the Vice President for Student Affairs at Central College in Pella, Iowa and at Gustavus Adolphus College in Saint Peter, MN.