UGA alumna Erin L. Richman is the new director of academic partnerships and initiatives at UGA’s Division of Student Affairs.
“Dr. Richman will lead our efforts to organize and support collaboration among administrators, faculty, staff and students,” said Victor K. Wilson, vice president for student affairs. “These partnerships are essential to provide each student with the best holistic learning experience possible.”
Richman, who joined UGA Feb. 15, most recently was executive director of institutional innovation at Florida State College at Jacksonville.
Academic Partnerships and Initiatives is a department within the Division of Student Affairs that aims to bridge the learning experiences in Student Affairs to the coursework, research and educational programs offered across campus.
In the two years since its creation, Academic Partnerships and Initiatives already has done much to enhance the learning experience, specifically implementing programs designed to ease the transition to college for transfer and first-generation students.
Richman knows that collaboration between Student Affairs and other areas of campus may be a new concept for some, but she embraces the challenge.
“I enjoy helping others navigate unfamiliar terrain while still building excitement and consensus,” Richman said. “Moving the needle requires collaborative leadership paired with clear, effective communication.”
A “Double Dawg,” Richman earned both her master’s and doctorate in psychology from UGA, including a graduate certificate in women’s studies. She received a bachelor’s degree in psychology, with honors, from the University of Central Florida.
“I’m thrilled to return to UGA to enhance relationships for Student Affairs and promote academic partnerships across the university,” Richman said.