Beth Hellwig

As Higher Education (HE) continues to adapt to its changing environment, the role of student affairs leaders becomes increasingly vital in addressing student needs and fostering a supportive campus environment. Dr Beth Hellwig, currently serving as the interim Dean of Students at the University of Vermont, exemplifies this commitment with a career spanning nearly five decades across diverse institutions.

In today’s conversation, Beth sat down with Interview Co-Host Jack Eagle to discuss her remarkable journey in Higher Education (HE), the evolving role of student affairs leaders, and her dedication to creating inclusive, supportive, and engaging campus experiences.

Beth's Journey

Jack: Let’s start with a quick introduction to yourself and your institution.

My name is Dr Beth Hellwig, and I’ve had the privilege of working in HE and Student Affairs for 49 years. My career has taken me to a variety of institutions, from the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire to San Francisco State University, and now to the University of Vermont, where I’m serving as interim Dean of Students.

Although I officially retired in 2018, I missed working with college students and decided to return to the field. Through an organization called The Registry, I’ve taken on interim leadership roles at several universities. Each placement – ranging from California State University Maritime Academy to the University of North Dakota – has offered unique challenges and opportunities. My current role at the University of Vermont began in September, so I’m still relatively new here, but it’s been a rewarding experience so far.

Jack: With such a breadth of experience across institutions, how has your approach to leadership evolved?

Transitioning between institutions has taught me the importance of adaptability. In permanent roles, you have years to build partnerships and learn the campus culture. In interim positions, you have to hit the ground running, quickly assess the climate, and understand the strategic priorities.

What’s consistent, though, is the need to focus on students’ holistic experiences. My approach always centers on understanding what students need to succeed and fostering partnerships across campus to meet those needs.

Jack: Student affairs often play a crucial role in shaping experiences outside the classroom. What areas have been particularly important in your work?

Leadership development has always been a passion of mine. For over 25 years, I’ve advised student governments and taught leadership courses. My doctoral dissertation focused on student body presidents – exploring their challenges and the impact they have on campus. I love helping students build the skills they’ll need to create change, both during and after their time at university.

Creating a diverse and inclusive campus climate is another key focus. At San Francisco State University, for example, the student body was 87% students of color, which was a very different environment from some of the predominantly white institutions I’ve worked at. I’ve also advocated for LGBTQ+ students and supported international students – drawing on personal experiences, like my family’s work hosting foster children from Cuba. These initiatives are all about making every student feel welcome and supported.

Jack: You’ve worked with diverse student bodies across the US. How do you engage students facing time constraints or other challenges?

One strategy I’ve found effective is embedding practical life skills into first-year and sophomore experiences. For example, Stephen Covey’s Seven Habits of Highly Effective People has been adapted into courses for college students, teaching skills like time management, prioritization, and conflict resolution.

Internships, work opportunities, and mentoring programs are also key. At one campus, we matched students with alumni through a program called Career Connections, giving them opportunities to shadow professionals, gain real-world experience, and build networks. These initiatives not only help students balance work and academics but also prepare them for their next steps after graduation.

Jack: Mental health and civic engagement are critical issues in HE today. How do you address these in your current role?

At the University of Vermont, we’ve seen an increased focus on food insecurity, housing challenges, and safety – issues that deeply impact student well-being. To address these, we’ve partnered with community organizations to create food banks and support networks.

Mental health remains a priority, too. Our care team brings together staff from counseling, health, and academic support to intervene when students are in crisis. We also work closely with families, offering guidance while respecting students’ privacy under regulations like FERPA and HIPAA.

As for civic engagement, I believe it’s about creating spaces for dialogue and helping students navigate differences. These are life skills as much as academic ones, and they’re essential for building stronger communities both on and off campus.

Jack: Finally, what’s one piece of advice you’d give to anyone starting a career in the sector?

There’s a quote I love: “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” The challenges we face can feel overwhelming, but taking things one step at a time makes them manageable. Whether it’s supporting students, addressing campus issues, or navigating your own career, incremental progress is key.