KOKOMO, Ind. — Audra Dowling joins Indiana University Kokomo as Dean of Students, the principal representative and advocate for all students.
“I bring a lot of different angles to what makes a successful student, but I can also share what it takes to pick yourself back up in the harder times. I can help students see the possibilities available to them,” Dowling said, a first-generation college graduate and former student-athlete and leader.
This position oversees student life programming, support services including career services and campus diversity, and administers the Student Code of Conduct.
Dowling, a native of Navarre, Ohio, initially planned to teach early childhood special education, but a graduate assistantship in residence life led her to higher education and student affairs.
“I really enjoy working with students, and finding those teachable moments with them,” she said. “I look forward to working with IU Kokomo’s students, and helping them be successful in college.”
Todd Gambill, vice chancellor for student affairs and enrollment management, noted that Dowling has nearly completed a doctorate in leadership in higher education at Bellarmine University, Louisville.
“Following a national search, we are thrilled to add a professional of Audra’s caliber to the Cougar family,” Gambill said. “She has had considerable success at each stage of her professional journey, and is now poised to fill this critical role for IU Kokomo and our students. Students will quickly gravitate to her as a mentor and advocate, and I look forward to working closely with her to facilitate student success stories.”
Dowling previously was assistant director of residence life at IU Southeast. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education and a Master of Arts in Education from Walsh University, North Canton, Ohio.
Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.