Keniese Evans joined the University of Iowa as the Assistant Dean of Leadership and Engagement during August, 2023.

Originally from Chicago, IL, Evans moved to Iowa after attending the University of Northern Iowa for her bachelor’s and master’s degrees. She’s also a member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.

Her role in the Office of the Dean of Students provides support of Fraternity and Sorority Life, Leadership, Service, Civic Engagement, and Student Engagement and Campus Programs.

“It’s a long way of saying I work with the staff that administers the majority of the leadership and engagement initiatives for students,” Evans says. “I also work with the Dean of Students Advisory Board, Mindful and Engaged Hawkeyes and Days of Dialogue, student award programming, and Bridging Our World Flag Display.” Including those programs, Evans also provides oversight for Dance Marathon, Homecoming, Lecture Committee, CAB, and many other student organizations on campus.

Evans is ready to help students become engaged with activities throughout campus, sharing her thoughts and excitement about the position. I asked her a few questions about her new role.

Q: What do you hope to accomplish in this position to help students?

It's my goal to help students find their path to success by engaging in the many opportunities available at the university and to help them define their leadership style/journey. And this looks different for everyone so I want to make sure there are meaningful opportunities available that will help a student develop and find their way. I also think it is my responsibility to identify and remove barriers for students to do this so I should always be open to feedback and constantly evaluate what we offer.

Q: What would you like students to know about your position?

My door (or email) is always open to you! Do not hesitate to contact me if there is something that you need or have questions about.

Q: Any advice for students?

Don't be afraid to get out of your comfort zone. College is the best time to try new things, meet new people, and find your passions.

In her free time, Evans enjoys reading (having read 350 books in 2020), going to concerts and listening to music, and going home to her 10-pound dachshund and poodle mix, King.