A Community of Engaged Learners Where Individuals Flourish

Founded in 1693 by King William III and Queen Mary II of England, the College of William & Mary (W&M) boasts that it is unlike any other university in America. William & Mary is the second oldest college in the nation, but also a cutting-edge research university. It is highly selective, public and strives to off er a world-class education without the sticker shock.
As vice president for student affairs, Dr. Virginia M. Ambler leads 70 full-time and 22 part-time staff members across many departments in the Division of Student Aff airs, including student counseling, multicultural student services, student advocacy, student activities, residence life and student health, to name a few.
The Division of Student Affairs at W&M has a shared vision: To create an engaging learning environment where community is strengthened and individuals fl ourish. With this in mind, Vice President Ambler says, “Our division is strongest — and we are better role models for the students we serve — when all voices are honored and when colleagues are respected for the unique expertise, talents and perspectives they bring to our work.” For this reason, the division socializes regularly, both personally and professionally, for staff to truly get to know each other and to explore diversity in its many forms.
“Creating an open, respectful environment is essential for staff to fl ourish in their roles,” notes Ambler. “How fortunate I am to have professional colleagues who share that commitment to diversity, inspiring me every day to keep learning and growing!” Staff members in the Division of Student Aff airs at W&M agree about the value placed on diversity. For instance, staff like Linda Knight, director of campus recreation, praised W&M as a place where all staff , including underrepresented minorities, feel supported, welcomed and respected by colleagues and supervisors. “It is extremely helpful and comforting to work in a division that values who you are as well as the work you do,” Knight remarks.
W. Taylor Reveley III, president of William & Mary, praises the Division of Student Aff airs for doing “remarkably eff ective work [in] pursuing diversity and inclusion on our campus.” Indeed, the student aff airs staff at W&M is viewed as equal partners in achieving the educational mission of one of the nation’s oldest institutions.