Dr. M.L. “Cissy” Petty began her tenure as the inaugural Dean of the Student Experience and Associate Vice Provost of the George Washington University on July 23, 2018. In August 2019, she was appointed Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students, serving on the GW president’s executive cabinet.
Dr. Petty’s professional career showcases her dedication to students and her commitment to her community.
Prior to her arrival at GW, Dr. Petty served as Vice President for Student Affairs and Associate Provost at Loyola University New Orleans, Vice President of Co-Curricular Education and Dean of Students at St. Lawrence University (NY), Post-Doctoral Fellow as the Distinguished Counseling Scholar in Residence at University of North Carolina –Greensboro, Dean of Student Development at Mississippi University for Women, Director of Student Development at the University of North Carolina-Asheville, and the Director of Student Activities at Florida Institute of Technology.
Dr. Petty has taught at the graduate and undergraduate level in courses ranging from leadership development to counseling and serves on numerous university committees. She publishes in areas of professional leadership, coaching, and development. She serves in the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA), the American College Personnel Association (ACPA), and The Florida State University on a number of leadership boards. Her presentations are numerous at the national level regarding higher education administration and talent identification and development. Dr. Petty also consults for a variety of non-profit leaders in education, business, and hospital administration.
The Jesuit Association of Student Personnel Administrators (JASPA) awarded her the Ignatian Medal for Outstanding Service, spring, 2013. The National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA) recognized Dr. Petty as a Pillar of the Profession, spring, 2014. JASPA again recognized her with the Reverend Victor R. Yanitelli Award, the JASPA’s highest recognition for servant leadership, spring, 2016.
Previously, Cissy has served with ARC of Greater New Orleans, Rebuilding Together, and the St. Bernard Project. She was also engaged in Rotary International and has served on the boards of the American Red Cross, United Way, American Heart Association, and Big Brothers and Sisters.