Washington and Lee University

Washington and Lee University

Staff Directory


At Washington and Lee University, most students will get to know the Dean of Student Affairs and staff within the Office of Student Affairs. The Office of the Dean of Student Affairs provides leadership to departments within the Division of Student Affairs and works with all aspects of student life, both inside and outside the classroom. Additionally, staff in the office handle general questions regarding University policies and procedures. The deans also serve as an entry point and clearinghouse for student concerns and resources, maintain disciplinary and other non-academic records, and serve as liaisons with the local community.

The Student Affairs Division includes: Public Safety, Student Health and Counseling Services, Elrod Commons and Campus Activities, and Office of the The Dean of Student Affairs which includes the First-Year Program, Mutlicultural Affairs, Student Conduct, Religious Life, and Residential Life.

Dawn Watkins, Ph.D., Dean of Student Affairs
The Dean of Student Affairs serves as the senior executive officer for the Division of Student Affairs at Washington and Lee University. Responsibilities include development of the departmental mission, leadership, and supervision of the majority of student life and student services functions at W&L. The Dean of Student Affairs collaborates with various constituents in order to meet the developmental needs of W&L students.

David M. Leonard, Associate Dean of Student Affairs and Dean of First-Year Students
The Associate Dean of Student Affairs and Dean of First-Year Students provides leadership for all aspects of the Freshman Program and serves as the primary point of contact for first-year students and their families. The Dean collaborates with the Associate Deans on various programs throughout the year. Additional responsibilities include assisting the Dean of Student Affairs with daily operations and faculty/student concerns and providing leadership for Housing and Residential Life.

Tamara Futrell, Associate Dean of Students
The Associate Dean of Students is responsible for the development of Multicultural Programs at W&L. Additionally, the Associate Dean advises numerous student organizations, serves as the Head C.A.I.R. resource, and oversees Black Greek Life. Additional responsibilities include assisting the Dean of Student Affairs with daily operations and faculty/student concerns.


Brandon R. Dotson, Associate Dean of Students
The Associate Dean of Students is responsible for the overall leadership of the University’s Student Conduct System and has primary responsibility for each area within Residential Life at W&L. Additional responsibilities include assisting the Dean of Student Affairs with daily operations and faculty/student concerns.


Nellie Rice
Executive Assistant to the Dean of Student Affairs & Parents' Weekend Coordinator
Assists the Dean of Student Affairs with all aspects of the Division of Student Affairs. Assists the Associate Dean of Students for Student Conduct and serves as office manager.

Kati Grow
Administrative Assistant to the Associate Dean of Student Affairs and Dean of First-Year Students

Assists the Associate Dean of Student Affairs and Dean of First-Year Students and the Associate Deans of Students.

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