By Lynn Julianno

Longtime higher education leader Khalilah Doss was appointed Cal State Fullerton’s vice president for student affairs following a national search. Her chief focus as an educator is to help students navigate their academic journeys and build toolkits to become global citizens.

”Students are my why,” shared Doss, who will begin her term on July 16.

In this role, Doss will lead the Division of Student Affairs, which works to transform the lives of students through such opportunities as community involvement, multicultural experiences, leadership training, career development and more.

Throughout her 20 years of experience in student affairs, Doss has led successful initiatives through evidence-based decision making. She currently serves as vice president for student affairs and dean of students at Middle Tennessee State University, and previously served as vice president for student affairs at the University of Southern Indiana.

“Dr. Doss’ decades of experience across student affairs and higher education have earned her a reputation as a compassionate and thoughtful servant leader, deeply committed to student leadership and development,” said CSUF President Ronald S. Rochon. “She is passionate about developing and implementing innovative programs that foster belonging and academic excellence.”

A first-generation college graduate, Doss experienced firsthand the transformative power of higher education. As a track athlete, she learned discipline, grit and resilience. As a resident adviser — her first experience with student affairs leadership — she learned the value of teamwork.

“What I enjoy most about working in student affairs is the opportunity to make meaningful differences in the lives of students,” shared Doss. “This work fulfills me because I want to be who I needed, and sometimes did not have, during my undergraduate journey.”

During her first 100 days at Cal State Fullerton, Doss plans to hit the ground running. Her top priority is building relationships with students, the entire student affairs team, faculty, staff and alumni to understand how the campus can better support students.

“I want the community to know how much I love working with students and how deeply committed I am to advocating for students’ voices,” said Doss. “I also want the community to know that I’m always open to feedback and new ideas. There’s brilliance all around us.

“What has been made clear to me is that this community loves its students, loves the work that they do, and values collaboration and shared governance,” she emphasized.

Doss holds a doctorate in educational administration and higher education from Southern Illinois University Carbondale, a master’s degree in public administration and policy analysis from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, and a bachelor’s degree in economics, finance and marketing from McKendree University. In addition, Doss is a member of the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators and other national organizations in the field of student affairs.

“The energy from students, staff and faculty was palpable when I visited campus,” Doss shared. “I really appreciated the sense of community that seemed to be present everywhere.”

Doss will be joined in her move to California by her husband, Dameion Doss Sr.; two sons, Dameion Doss II and Drake Doss; mother, Precious Watt; and dog, Bolt.

“I am ecstatic, thankful and humbled by this opportunity,” she said. “The CSUF strategic plan speaks to the notion of moving Fullerton Forward together, and I cannot wait to join you all in this work.”

Courtesy CSUF