Rachel Dewaal

She is an accomplished higher education leader with over 2 decades of experience in student affairs, retention strategy, campus operations, and student success, currently serving as Dean of Student Affairs at South University's Tampa and Orlando campuses. In this role, she provides strategic leadership for student services and engagement, overseeing campus life, student conduct, Title IX compliance, accessibility services, and community engagement while leading a team of Academic Counselors. She has consistently maintained an 88–94% retention rate through proactive outreach and data-informed support strategies, and serves as Chief Conduct Officer and Title IX Investigator. Prior to this role, she served as Director of Student Services, Business Affairs, and Campus Operations at Nossi College of Art & Design, where she increased student retention by 58% and reduced SAP-related issues by more than 70%. She pioneered student resource programs including peer tutoring, a therapy program, a ride share program, a food pantry, and professionalism workshops, and planned more than 30 student events annually. She also served as Senior Online Student Advisor at Bethel University, and as Assistant Manager of Retail Operations at Service Systems Associates. She is recognized as a strategic, compassionate, and results-driven leader who is deeply committed to student success, equity, and creating inclusive campus environments where all students can thrive.