Dean of Students

As the chief student affairs officer for the College, Dr. Robert J. Perkins brings to Wesleyan over 30 years of experience in higher education. His service includes a wide range of experience at a variety of institutions, from large public universities to small, private liberal arts colleges. In addition to his administrative responsibilities, he has served as an adjunct professor of counseling, higher education, and psychology.

His professional and research interests have focused primarily on first-generation college students, under-represented student groups, the developmental needs of all college students, and the preparation of entry-level student affairs professionals.

He has made over 30 presentations at state, regional, and national conferences, published articles in professional publications, and received several awards and recognitions, including the first American College Personnel Association Excellence in Practice Award. He also was inducted into that association’s Senior Student Affairs Officers Practitioner Program in 2001.

Dr. Perkins came to Wesleyan in July 2007 after serving as Director of Student Support Services at American International College in Springfield, Massachusetts, as Dean of Students at Averett University in Danville, Virginia, and as Dean of Student Development at Alma College in Michigan.

He received a B.A. degree in psychology from Nasson College, an M.S.Ed. in counselor education from the University of Southern Maine, and a Ph.D. in counseling and higher education from the University of Michigan.

Dr. Perkins can be reached at 252-985-5228 and rperkins@ncwc.edu.