As the dean of students, Debbie Chalmers leads a team of student affairs professionals responsible for the student experience outside the classroom. With more than 20 years of experience in student advocacy, she acts as a resource for students navigating various challenges and represents the student voice within administration. With extensive work in handling crisis situations, Chalmers leads the Behavioral Intervention Team in caring for, intervening in and responding to the critical needs of students.
The Student Affairs team includes the associate dean, Residence Life, Sorority and Fraternity Life, New Student Programs, Civic Engagement, TU Student Advocate, Resilience and Belonging, Student Activities, Student Government and Counseling and Psychological Services. Together, the team works to foster a vibrant and inclusive campus culture that promotes the individual development of each unique student.
Prior to joining UTulsa, Chalmers served in numerous roles within higher education, including admissions, residence life, conduct and crisis management at several universities across the nation. Her decades of leadership in higher education contribute to a holistic view of the student experience, and her extensive work in student development translates into a passion and drive to help students see success at The University of Tulsa.
Chalmers holds a bachelor’s in history and a master’s in counseling and student personnel from Oklahoma State University. Her goal is for every student to love their alma mater as much as she loves hers. Go Pokes and Reign ‘Cane!