By Faith Christner, Student Affairs
Verna Howell, associate vice president for Student Affairs, will retire from Clemson University after 33 years of service. Her last official day in this position will be Monday, March 17.
“Verna’s commitment to excellence has enabled Student Affairs to provide meaningful opportunities for students,” said Gail DiSabatino, vice president of Student Affairs. “If not for Verna, I am not sure we would have Stadium Suites, a remodeled Greek Quad or a highly effective new student program. Verna leaves a great legacy and she will be missed.”
Howell joined Clemson University’s housing staff as an area coordinator in 1980. She was named Clemson’s director of housing in August of 1990, and she currently serves as associate vice president for Student Affairs. She works to ensure that new students have the information, support and structure they need to be engaged, satisfied and successful Clemson students. She also serves as a member of the executive staff of the vice president for Student Affairs.
Howell has been active in numerous housing and student affairs professional associations throughout her career. Past president of the Southeastern Association of Housing Officers, Howell has also served on the faculty of the National Housing Training Institute, the South Africa Student Housing Training Institute in Stellenbosch, South Africa, and as a trustee for the Foundation Board of the Association of College and University Housing Officers-International. Howell is a recipient of SEAHO’s Charles W. Beene Memorial Service Award, SEAHO’s Founders Award and was inducted in 2008 to the ACUHO-I Parthenon Society in recognition of her long-time service and accomplishments. Howell recently received the Thomas Green Clemson Award for Excellence from the board of trustees.
Howell earned a Bachelor of Science degree in English from Clemson University in 1978 and a Master of Education degree in counselor education from Wake Forest University in 1979.
Farewell reception scheduled
A retirement reception for Howell will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. March 13 at the Alumni Center.
