Leadership Changes in Student Development Announced

Sarah Cunningham, Ed.D., vice president for student development at Saint Louis University, recently announced leadership changes in her division.

Donna Bess Myers (Grad Ed ’99) has been selected as SLU’s permanent dean of students after serving on an interim basis since the spring 2020 semester. Eric Anderson (Grad Chaifetz ’01), director for campus recreation and wellness, has been tapped to serve as interim assistant vice president for student well-being — a new position at the University. 

Myers has supported SLU students for more than 20 years in a variety of roles, including serving as assistant dean of students and interim director of the Cross Cultural Center. The SLU Women’s Commission named her a “woman of the year” in 2008, and she later served as the group’s president. 

“Donna has set a tone for what it means to be an empathetic administrator, and did so during a tumultuous time,” Cunningham said in her recent announcement. “She leads with grace and humility, and was the ideal candidate for this role.” 

Anderson has agreed to serve as interim assistant vice president for student well-being while SLU works to launch a national search for the new leadership role, which oversees the Student Health, University Counseling, and Campus Recreation and Wellness. Anderson has worked at the University since 2007. 

“This new position further highlights the University’s commitment to supporting student well-being in a holistic and comprehensive way,” Cunningham said. “When I came to SLU and started thinking about the opportunities and leadership talent we have, Eric quickly came to mind as we coordinate and expand our student wellness services across the division and the University. 

Todd Robben will serve as the interim director for campus recreation and wellness while Anderson serves as interim AVP.