GVSU names new vice provost for Student Affairs and dean of students

Grand Valley State University Provost Maria Cimitile has announced the appointment of Loren Rullman as vice provost for Student Affairs and dean of students.

Rullman has more than 30 years of higher education experience and served as associate vice president for Student Life at the University of Michigan from 2007-2017. Currently, he is principal of higher education strategy and consulting at Workshop Architects, a firm that specializes in higher education planning and advising. 

Rullman received a doctorate in educational leadership and policy from University of Missouri, St. Louis. He also has a master's degree in higher education from Indiana University and a bachelor's degree in advertising and Spanish from Valparaiso University. 

"Dr. Rullman impressed all of us with his leadership experience, enthusiasm for this position and eagerness to help students be successful in their academic and personal lives," Cimitile said. "He is a collaborative leader and is student centered in his decision making. I could not be more excited to extend a warm welcome as he joins the Grand Valley community." 

Rullman, who grew up in Grant and East Jordan, Michigan, said he was drawn to Grand Valley's collegial culture, accomplishments and dedication to student success.

"I'm thrilled to be joining a team of talented student affairs professionals and I look forward to connecting with students and working alongside academic colleagues," Rullman said. "During the search process, I was able to meet students, staff members and faculty who showed me how much they genuinely care about Grand Valley. I am a child of public school teachers and a product of a public school education. A vast majority of my higher education career has been working for public institutions, so I believe in the purpose of a public university."  

Rullman will begin his duties July 23. He will serve as the senior student affairs officer and provide leadership for the Division of Student Services.