A message from President Damián J. Fernández

Dear Warren Wilson Community,

I am delighted to announce that Gilbert Hinga, Psy.D., an international student and 1989 graduate of the College, will join us July 1 as Vice President and Dean for Student Engagement. Dr. Hinga brings not only 35 years of experience in higher education, but also a deep love for Warren Wilson College.

His career in student services began here at Warren Wilson when he served as a Resident Hall Manager and Orientation Assistant. From here he attended Wright State University in Ohio earning his Psy.D. from the School of Professional Psychology. Dr. Hinga served as Assistant Director of Multicultural Services at Miami University in Ohio, then Assistant Vice President for Wellness and Career Development at Tarleton State University in Texas. He later became Tarleton’s Associate Vice President for Student Life. At Hastings College in Nebraska he served as Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students, after which he held a similar role at University of Nebraska, Kearney. His most recent work was through The Registry for College & University Presidents.

“I am so thrilled and honored to be joining the Warren Wilson family again,” Dr. Hinga said. “Thank you for this opportunity. I am eager to meet everyone and to begin working with you to contribute to the continued success and growth of this special place.”

Thank you search committee chair M. Z. Yehudah, Dean of Inclusive Excellence, and the entire search committee for their excellent work. Members were unanimous in their support of Dr. Hinga.

“Throughout the interview process Dr. Hinga displayed the requisite experience, vision, and willingness to lead Student Engagement in a way that is in alignment with our mission and progressive promise,” said Dr. Yehudah. “The Search Committee is confident that he will collaborate across campus to leave no stone unturned in addressing the diverse needs of our student body, and that he will develop and apply strategies to enhance student well-being, belonging, and engagement.”

Special thanks to Tacci Smith for her leadership during the last two years. She will continue as Associate Dean of Students, and we look forward to the next phase of her work with Warren Wilson students.

Damián