Nichole Sherman has been promoted to dean of students and Jimmy Phillips will advance to associate dean of students/director of residential life, University of the Ozarks officials announced this week.
Sherman’s promotion becomes effective May 1, 2024, and Phillips’ promotion begins on July 1, 2024.
Sherman, who has served as director of student engagement at Ozarks since June 2022, will replace Terri Thomas as dean of students. Thomas announced her resignation earlier this month to pursue other opportunities.
Phillips has served as director of residential life since June of 2023.
“The relationship with individuals in Office of Student Life is a vital piece of the student experience at Ozarks,” said Dody Pelts, vice president for student success. “I am pleased and excited to announce promotions within our student life team. Nichole is a valued member of the Ozarks community who has led student engagement efforts with dedication, energy, and strong decision making skills. Her experience and connection with students, along with her commitment to creating an atmosphere that supports Ozarks’ retention and graduation efforts will help her to lead the student life team as the new dean of students. Jimmy’s leadership in the role of director of residential life has resulted in improvements to many areas of Ozarks’ residential experience. His experience in higher education and his strong background in student development contribute to his ability to expand his role within the student life team as associate dean of students/director of residential life.”
“We wish Terri much success as she builds upon her passion for helping others in her new adventure,” Pelts said.
Sherman most recently served as the area coordinator for the residential apartment facilities at Austin College in Sherman, Texas, before joining Ozarks in 2022. She was born and raised in Texarkana, Texas, and earned her bachelor’s degree from Centenary and a master’s degree in student development and leadership from Angelo State University in Texas. She and her husband, Justin, have two daughters, Harper and Riley, and a son, Jack.
Before joining Ozarks, Phillips served as the area coordinator at Lee University in Cleveland, Tenn. A native of the Chicago suburbs, he earned bachelor’s degrees in political science and elementary education from Olivet Nazarene University in Bourbonnais, Ill., before earning a master’s degree in higher education administration from Lee.
Topics: Student Life