Division of Student Affairs Welcomes Alex Beattie as Assistant Dean of Students

DSA News
November 15, 2024

The Division of Student Affairs is delighted to announce the appointment of Alex Beattie as the new Assistant Dean of Students in the Dean of Students Office. With a deep commitment to student success and extensive experience in student support and conduct management, Alex will be a key contributor to the University of Houston’s (UH) mission of fostering a campus culture of accountability, growth, and inclusion.

Alex’s journey at UH began in Student Housing and Residence Life (SHRL), where he served as the Assistant Director of Assessment and Student Conduct. In this role, he played an instrumental part in enhancing the student conduct process, designing and implementing training programs, and establishing accountability frameworks to ensure transparency and fairness in case management. His work not only focused on rule enforcement but also on nurturing a sense of responsibility and respect among students, helping them develop essential life skills and resilience. Alex’s approach emphasized the importance of community standards and the role of personal growth in academic and social success.

As Assistant Dean of Students, Alex will take on an expanded role in supporting students and guiding them through the conduct process. He will serve as a hearing officer, addressing complex student conduct cases and ensuring that outcomes are balanced, fair, and educational. Alex’s goal is to provide constructive feedback to students, helping them reflect on their actions and grow from their experiences. He believes that the conduct process should not just be about discipline but an opportunity for students to build character, enhance their personal development, and emerge as engaged, responsible members of the UH community.

In addition to his work with individual cases, Alex will oversee the University Hearing Boards, ensuring that members are well-trained to handle conduct issues with empathy, fairness, and integrity. By instilling these values in the hearing process, Alex aims to help students and organizations understand the importance of accountability, while also fostering a sense of belonging and community on campus.

Dr. Sara Jahansouz Wray, Associate dean of students and a a key leader in student affairs, expressed her enthusiasm for Alex’s appointment, stating, “We are thrilled to welcome Alex to the Dean of Students Office. His experience in promoting student success through fair, compassionate, and thoughtful conduct practices is exactly what we need to continue our mission of providing a supportive and inclusive environment for all students.”

Originally from Columbus, Ohio, Alex brings a multifaceted perspective to his work, grounded in his professional expertise and a genuine passion for student advocacy. Outside of his role, Alex is an outdoor enthusiast, enjoying activities like hiking and exploring new cities. A loyal sports fan, he also enjoys supporting his favorite teams, bringing the same spirit of camaraderie and community to both his personal and professional life.

The Division of Student Affairs community is eager to witness the positive impact Alex Beattie will make as Assistant Dean of Students. His appointment signifies a renewed dedication to cultivating an environment where students can thrive, not only academically but in every dimension of their lives. Alex’s presence in this critical role promises to inspire students, staff, and faculty alike, setting the stage for a new era of growth, responsibility, and unity at UH. Welcome aboard, Alex—Student Affairs is excited to embark on this journey with you!

Written By Dhivyadharshini Selvaraj – Marketing and Communications Coordinator- Student Affairs