Eastern Michigan University announced on Mar. 24 the appointment of Dr. Aura J. Cazares as its next Dean of Students, with her term beginning April 1, 2026.
The appointment is significant for the university’s ongoing efforts to support student well-being and foster a culture of inclusion and belonging across campus. Dr. Cazares brings experience from a range of educational institutions, including Catholic Jesuit universities, Hispanic-Serving Institutions, community colleges, public research universities, and nonprofit organizations.
Dr. Calvin McFarland, associate vice president for student success and academic support services at Eastern Michigan University (EMU), said, “Dr. Cazares brings a rare combination of professional expertise, personal insight, and unwavering commitment to student well-being. Her leadership will strengthen EMU’s ability to support students holistically, advance our strategic priorities, and cultivate a campus culture where every student feels seen, supported, and empowered to succeed.”
In her own words about the new role at EMU, Dr. Cazares said: “I am honored to serve as Eastern Michigan University’s Dean of Students. My journey as a first-generation immigrant and college graduate shaped my practice and ability to listen and validate the lived experiences of the communities I serve. This framework cultivates cross-campus partnerships committed to strengthening student services, dismantling systemic barriers that impact student success…and creating a campus culture of belonging where every student can navigate their journey with confidence and achieve their academic and professional goals.”
As Dean of Students at EMU—a university recognized nationally for its programs in various fields according to the official website—Dr. Cazares will oversee non-academic programs aimed at supporting holistic development among students (according to the official website). Her responsibilities include oversight over offices such as International Students & Scholars (OISS), Disability Resources Center (DRC), Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS), as well as managing crisis response processes.
Founded in 1849 with more than 12,000 students currently enrolled in over 200 undergraduate majors/minors alongside numerous graduate offerings (according to the official website), Eastern Michigan University prepares students for meaningful societal contributions through an educational focus that emphasizes critical thinking (according to the official website). The campus features historic architecture along with modern facilities designed for student success (according to the official website).
James Smith served as president of Eastern Michigan University (according to the official website).
Looking ahead, Dr. Cazares is expected by university officials to help advance operational excellence while continuing efforts related to compliance in care cultures—drawing on her previous leadership roles within state task forces focused on sexual assault prevention and gun violence prevention.
