Washington and Lee University
Lexington, Virginia • June 5, 2011
Sidney Springfield Evans, currently the associate dean for law student services at Washington and Lee University, has been appointed vice president of student affairs and dean of students at the university.
Washington and Lee President Kenneth P. Ruscio made the announcement of Evans' appointment, which is effective immediately.
She succeeds Dawn Watkins, who is stepping down from the position this month. Watkins, who joined W&L in 2001 as dean of freshmen, was appointed dean of students in 2003 and vice president for student affairs in 2008.
"Dawn has served the University, our students and their families with distinction in this most critical position," Ruscio said. "We appreciate her tireless work and accomplishments on behalf of the university.
"At the same time, we are very fortunate to have someone of Sidney Evans' capability, experience and familiarity with the institution in a position to move into this critical role immediately."
Evans has been a member of the W&L Law School's administration since 2000. She began as director of admissions and was named associate dean for law student services in 2002. In that capacity, she oversees law student affairs, admissions and career services. In addition, she is a member of the University's Student Affairs Committee, the University Committee on Inclusiveness and Campus Climate and the University Community Grants Committee. She also serves as the advisor for the University's Honor Advocates Program.
At the Law School, she is a member of the Dean's Cabinet, chairs the Admissions Committee, and serves on the Educational Planning and Curriculum, Academic Standards, Building, Judicial Clerkship and Loan Repayment Assistance Program committees. She is also a member of the Law Dean Search Committee. She chaired the Working Group to Review University Grievance Procedures from 2007 to 2009.
A native of Memphis, Tenn., Evans received her bachelor's degree from Vanderbilt University and her juris doctor from the University of Memphis School of Law. She practiced law with Wildman, Harrold, Allen, Dixon & McDonnell and Wolff Ardis P.C. in Memphis. In addition, she was assistant dean for student affairs and budget and later assistant dean for admissions at the University of Memphis School of Law.
As vice president for student affairs and dean of students, Evans will have responsibility for all areas of student life, including residence life; health and wellness services; multicultural affairs; student activities; the first-year program; residential life; Greek life; public safety; and auxiliary services, which includes dining services, mail services and copying services.