Taléa Drummer-Ferrell, Ph.D., ’s Dean of Students, has been appointed to serve as a member of NASPA’S (National Association of Student Personnel Administrators) AVP Steering Committee.
Already part of what NASPA refers to as the AVP Community (e.g. assistant/associate vice president or dean of students), she did not hesitate to apply after NASPA sent out a call for applications.
“I was immediately interested and applied right away,” she said. “I had participated in many of the events and professional opportunities offered through the steering committee [and] I have found it to be a valuable community!”
The term begins on March 23, 2021 and ends on April 4, 2023.
According to the AVP Steering Committee website, the organization strives to encourage excellence to those in the “number two” position. It accomplishes this through a combination of ongoing professional development, knowledge dissemination, networking, and recognition all with the goal in mind to address the diverse needs of all AVPs.
“Being Deputy to the Vice President for Student Affairs, as the Dean of Students, is such a unique experience,” said Drummer-Ferrell. “It is different from any other position I have held, and to spend time and space with others who have similar experiences is refreshing.”
She points out that the overall experience has the opportunity to help those around her as well.
“I am excited for the connections I will make, the experiences, and growth I will have, and bringing that back to Kent State to enhance our work,” said Drummer-Ferrell.
Upon receiving official notice of the appointment, she was energized and enthusiastic.
“It is such a great thrill, I have appreciated the experiences offered by the AVP Steering Committee during my first year as Dean of Students,” she said. “It is an honor to have the opportunity to be a part of something that has helped me in such a significant way.”
Drummer-Ferrell was named Dean of Students at Kent State on July 1, 2020, after serving in the role on an interim basis since October 1, 2019. She works as the university’s primary student advocate, assisting Vice President for Student Affairs Lamar Hylton in leading the division.
For more information on NASPA, visit