Kristina K. Bethea Odejimi '06: Dean of students at Emory

Kristina K. Bethea Odejimi ‘06 is joining Emory University as dean of students and associate vice president for belonging, engagement and community. In this role, she will partner with colleagues across Emory to support the university’s commitment to student flourishing.

Odejimi has more than a decade of experience in the field. She currently serves as dean of students at Bowdoin College where her responsibilities include counseling and wellness services, health services, student accessibility and the Office of the Dean of Students, which encompasses supervision of all class deans, student conduct, case management, international student services and new student orientation.

Earlier in her career, Odejimi was dean of students with St. Margaret’s School in Virginia and also held positions at the University of Virginia and the University of Arkansas.

She earned her doctor of education in leadership at Virginia Commonwealth University, a master’s in student affairs practice in higher education at the University of Virginia, and a bachelor’s in sociology, anthropology and Black studies at Denison University.

In an announcement about Odejimi’s nw role, Emory Provost Ravi V. Bellamkonda said, “Kristina has dedicated her career to championing student growth and development. She believes that belonging, well-being and purpose can empower students to make a difference in their communities and serve humanity—and that aligns with our mission. I am excited to see her create more opportunities and programming that foster a distinctive and memorable Emory experience for all our students.”