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Oakton Names New Vice President of Student Affairs

(June 24, 2015) The Oakton Community College Board of Trustees appointed Karl Brooks, Ed.D., as the vice president for Student Affairs at its monthly meeting on June 23. Brooks, currently the dean for student success at Joliet Junior College, will begin the position August 10. Brooks replaces Joianne Smith, Ph.D., who succeeds President Margaret B. Lee, Ph.D., beginning July 1.

Brooks was one of 87 applicants who applied for the position of vice president for student affairs. In his role at Oakton, Brooks will be responsible for coordinating the activities of numerous offices, including: Athletics, Career Services; Counseling and Health Services; Enrollment Services; Access, Equity, and Diversity; Recruitment and Outreach; Registrar Services; Student Development; Student Life; and Student Success. He also will serve as the principal advisor to the College president.

Prior to working at Joliet Junior College, he served as the student leadership institute director at DePaul University. Brooks received a doctorate degree in education from DePaul University; a master’s degree in education from Drake University; and a bachelor’s degree in psychology from North Central College.

“Karl’s commitment to students and their success, his authentic and collaborative working style, and his ability to lead change through evidence-based decisions are qualities that will serve the College well,” said Smith.

Oakton Community College District 535 serves residents in the communities of Evanston, Glencoe, Glenview, Golf, Kenilworth, Lincolnwood, Morton Grove, Niles, Northbrook, Northfield, Park Ridge, Skokie, Wilmette, Winnetka, and parts of Des Plaines, Mount Prospect, and Rosemont. With campuses in Des Plaines and Skokie, in sites throughout the district, and via a robust online presence, Oakton offers associate degrees in 80 fields of study as well as learning opportunities for career advancement and personal enrichment.

Faculty Profile

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Psychology instructor, Shelley Cohen, encourages and motivates students to be the best they can be.