San Diego State University, Imperial Valley Appoints Dean of Students

Henry Villegas has been named Dean of Students of SDSU Imperial Valley. Prior to his permanent appointment, Villegas served in an interim capacity since January 2021.



Villegas has more than 30 years of experience in higher education administration, having served as the Assistant Athletic Director for Student Development at Indiana State University, the Associate Athletic Director for Student Development at the University of New Mexico, and the Associate Director of Educational Opportunity Programs and Ethnic Affairs at SDSU.



“Dr. Villegas has demonstrated his commitment to student success, student well-being, and the holistic student experience,” said Vice President of Student Affairs and Campus Diversity, Luke Wood. “I am honored to call him my colleague and glad to see him selected to serve in this important permanent position.”



Villegas received both his bachelor’s degree in social science education and his master’s degree in counseling from Indiana State University. He went on to earn his doctoral degree in educational leadership from The University of New Mexico. His research areas include the impact of intentional student support on underserved populations and the application of student development theory in student affairs.



“We are thrilled to have Dr. Villegas join our SDSU Imperial Valley leadership team as the incoming Dean of Students,” said SDSU Imperial Valley Dean Guillermina Gina Núñez-Mchiri. “He is an excellent team builder and mentor, who is willing to roll up his sleeves to get to work and to find solutions to help best serve our students.”



The announcement comes at a time of critical growth for the university. As announced earlier this year, SDSU Imperial Valley will be expanding its Brawley campus, building a new STEM facility in the Valley that will house labs for STEM programs, such as the new accelerated BSN program. This renewable energy initiative builds on the university’s continued investment and dedication to the surrounding community.



“I am excited about the opportunity to work with the dedicated team at SDSU Imperial Valley in the continued support of our students. As we grow and expand our academic programs, we are also committed to creating an equitable and quality college experience for our students here in the Valley,” said Villegas. “I feel especially fortunate to serve our SDSU Imperial Valley community during this important time in our university’s history.”