UE Announces Leadership Transition in Student Affairs

Evansville, Ind. (03/19/2025) — The University of Evansville (UE) has appointed longtime Residence Life official Brian Conner as the next Assistant Dean of Students & Director of Residence Life, Dr. Rachel S. Carpenter, Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students, announced on Wednesday.

Conner, who has served UE for 22 years, has played a vital role in Residence Life, housing operations, and student success initiatives. His leadership in residential education and campus engagement will further UE's mission of forming a dynamic living and learning environment.

He succeeds Michael Tessier, Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs & Director of Residence Life, who will retire on May 31, 2025, after more than 25 years of service. Tessier has overseen key areas such as Residence Life, Multicultural Affairs, International Student Services, Student Publications, and Counseling and Disability Services. His leadership has been instrumental in campus housing projects, student engagement, and administrative initiatives that have shaped the student experience at UE.

Additionally, Will McDonner, a former Residential Coordinator, has been promoted to Assistant Director of Residence Life.

The University of Evansville expresses deep appreciation for Michael Tessier's outstanding service and leadership and looks forward to the continued contributions of Brian Conner and Will McDonner in their new roles.

Both Conner and McDonner will begin their new positions on June 1, 2025.

The University of Evansville is a private, comprehensive university with a solid foundation in the arts and sciences and professional schools in business, engineering, education, and health sciences. Established in 1854, UE is recognized across the globe for its rich tradition of innovative, academic excellence and dynamic campus community of #Changemakers.

Home of the Purple Aces, UE is located in the southwestern region of Indiana and offers over 75 majors, 17 Division I sports, and a unique study abroad experience at Harlaxton, the University's very own Victorian manor located in the countryside of England. For more information, please visit evansville.edu.

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Noah Alatza, Chief Communications Officer

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