After an extensive national search process, SUNY Westchester Community College has named Dr. Kelvin Rutledge as its new Vice President and Dean of Student Affairs. In this role, Dr. Rutledge will provide leadership and vision for a comprehensive student experience agenda designed to promote student success and inclusive excellence practices and strategies.
Dr. Rutledge has more than 15 years in higher education within the areas of higher education leadership, equity and inclusion, student and employee outcomes assessment and evaluation, and external and community relations. Most recently, at Southern Connecticut State University, Dr. Rutledge served in executive and divisional leadership roles with expanding responsibility, driving university-wide strategy, budget operations, and student success initiatives. Notably, he led strategic efforts that increased retention rates among underrepresented male students by 10% and helped spearhead key institutional, compliance, and community engagement planning.
Prior to his time at SCSU, Dr. Rutledge directed experiential learning and career development initiatives at flagship public institutions including the University of Georgia and Florida State University. Dr. Rutledge’s extensive record of student-centered leadership, scholarly research, and demonstrated commitment to equitable student outcomes position him to make an immediate impact across the SUNY WCC campus.
“Dr. Kelvin Rutledge brings a dynamic record of transformative leadership, student-centered vision, and dedicated community engagement to SUNY Westchester Community College,” said Dr. Belinda S. Miles, President of SUNY Westchester Community College. “His proven success in advancing student retention, managing complex operational and financial strategies, and creating environments where all students can thrive aligns directly with our mission. We are thrilled to welcome him to our campus community to lead our Student Affairs division into its next chapter of excellence.”
“I am honored and deeply excited to join SUNY Westchester Community College as Vice President and Dean of Student Affairs,” said Dr. Rutledge. “SUNY WCC is a strong representation of educational access, opportunity, and success in the region. I look forward to collaborating with President Miles, the dedicated faculty and staff, and—most importantly—the vibrant student body to cultivate environments and pathways that empower every student to achieve their personal, academic, and professional aspirations.”
Dr. Rutledge received his B.S. from Austin Peay State University, and his M.S. and Ph.D. in Higher Education from Florida State University.
