CMU names first University Engagement AVP

Shawna Patterson-Stephens, vice president of University Engagement and Student Affairs, today announced that Kyle Oldham, Ed.D., will serve as Central Michigan University’s first associate vice president of University Engagement.

Oldham comes to CMU from Colorado State University where he currently serves as director of Workplace Integrity and Talent Management for On & Off-Campus Life and previously as associate director of Housing & Dining Services for Diversity, Inclusion, and Assessment. In those roles, he trained and coached staff on workplace management, communication, policies and procedures, and meaning-making perspective. He oversaw learning and development opportunities for multiple units, including more than 450 full-time staff, and guided strategic planning, program review, and annual goals efforts.

“We are very much looking forward to welcoming Dr. Oldham into our community,” Patterson-Stephens said. “In addition to a wealth of experience in higher education, Kyle promises to bring an intentional, person-centered approach to guiding UESA's capacity for bridging holistic development with campus outreach and support. I look forward to supporting Dr. Oldham's leadership here at CMU.”

As CMU’s associate vice president of University Engagement, Oldham will oversee a unit focused on organizational culture and student success, and will supervise teams including the CMU Cares office, the Center for Collaborative Learning and Engagement, the CMU Counseling Center, and more. Additionally, he will provide guidance on matters pertaining to community engagement and belonging.

Oldham was selected following a national search that began in February. As part of the division’s leadership team, he will work closely with the AVP of Student Affairs, CMU colleagues in Student Recruitment and Retention and CMU Athletics, members of the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe, and other campus and community partners to foster strong relationships and to develop new opportunities for student, faculty and staff engagement.

“I’m excited to become part of a vibrant community, that centers learning, personal growth, student centered decision making, and holistic support and engagement,” Oldham said. “I look forward to building relationships and working together for a future where we ALL can thrive.” 

Oldham will serve as associate vice president of University Engagement beginning August 17.

Oldham earned an Ed.D. in social justice education from the University of Massachusetts-Amherst, a master’s degree in student affairs higher education from Colorado State University, and a bachelor’s degree in speech communications from Baldwin-Wallace University.