Knox College Dean Resigns Post

Xavier Romano, Knox College's vice president for student development and dean of students, has resigned from Knox as of June 1, 2010. Romano will remain on leave until then.

Romano took an administrative leave of absence on March 1, 2010. He is dealing with issues related to his father's failing health and is exploring his life post-Knox.

On June 2, Associate Dean of Students Debra Southern will assume the responsibility for student development as the Dean of Students. During Romano's leave she has been serving as the Acting Dean of Students.

"Xavier has brought change and innovation to the various offices that constitute Student Development," said Knox President Roger L. Taylor. "He has developed long-lasting bonds with many students and alumni. He leaves Knox with a strong and competent student development staff as he seeks the next steps in his personal life and professional career."

Student Development operations include campus life, career services, judicial affairs, counseling and health services, intercultural life, residential life, and academic support programs, including the federally funded TRIO Academic Support Program.

Romano came to Knox on July 1, 1998 from Holy Names College in Oakland, California, where he was vice president for student services.

During his tenure at Knox, Romano has been involved in Hispanic/Latino issues in post-secondary education. He serves on the board of NASPA, the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators and the NASPA Latino Advisory Board. In Galesburg, Romano works with local youth, helping them to explore the range of higher education opportunities available to them outside the region.

Romano also has been engaged in accreditation work with the Western Association of Colleges and Universities (Chapman University, University of Guam and most recently the California State University at East Bay) and works with other liberal arts institutions to help them enhance and develop their student development operations.