DSA News
November 15, 2024
The Division of Student Affairs is delighted to announce the appointment of Alex Beattie as the new Assistant Dean of Students in the Dean of Students Office. With a deep commitment to student success and extensive experience in student support and conduct management, Alex will be a key contributor to the University of Houston’s (UH) mission of fostering a campus culture of accountability, growth, and inclusion.

Alex’s journey at UH began in Student Housing and Residence Life (SHRL), where he
                           served as the Assistant Director of Assessment and Student Conduct. In this role,
                           he played an instrumental part in enhancing the student conduct process, designing
                           and implementing training programs, and establishing accountability frameworks to
                           ensure transparency and fairness in case management. His work not only focused on
                           rule enforcement but also on nurturing a sense of responsibility and respect among
                           students, helping them develop essential life skills and resilience. Alex’s approach
                           emphasized the importance of community standards and the role of personal growth in
                           academic and social success. 
As Assistant Dean of Students, Alex will take on an expanded role in supporting students
                           and guiding them through the conduct process. He will serve as a hearing officer,
                           addressing complex student conduct cases and ensuring that outcomes are balanced,
                           fair, and educational. Alex’s goal is to provide constructive feedback to students,
                           helping them reflect on their actions and grow from their experiences. He believes
                           that the conduct process should not just be about discipline but an opportunity for
                           students to build character, enhance their personal development, and emerge as engaged,
                           responsible members of the UH community. 
In addition to his work with individual cases, Alex will oversee the University Hearing
                           Boards, ensuring that members are well-trained to handle conduct issues with empathy,
                           fairness, and integrity. By instilling these values in the hearing process, Alex aims
                           to help students and organizations understand the importance of accountability, while
                           also fostering a sense of belonging and community on campus. 
Dr. Sara Jahansouz Wray, Associate dean of students and a a key leader in student
                           affairs, expressed her enthusiasm for Alex’s appointment, stating, “We are thrilled
                           to welcome Alex to the Dean of Students Office. His experience in promoting student
                           success through fair, compassionate, and thoughtful conduct practices is exactly what
                           we need to continue our mission of providing a supportive and inclusive environment
                           for all students.” 
Originally from Columbus, Ohio, Alex brings a multifaceted perspective to his work,
                           grounded in his professional expertise and a genuine passion for student advocacy.
                           Outside of his role, Alex is an outdoor enthusiast, enjoying activities like hiking
                           and exploring new cities. A loyal sports fan, he also enjoys supporting his favorite
                           teams, bringing the same spirit of camaraderie and community to both his personal
                           and professional life. 
The Division of Student Affairs community is eager to witness the positive impact
                           Alex Beattie will make as Assistant Dean of Students. His appointment signifies a
                           renewed dedication to cultivating an environment where students can thrive, not only
                           academically but in every dimension of their lives. Alex’s presence in this critical
                           role promises to inspire students, staff, and faculty alike, setting the stage for
                           a new era of growth, responsibility, and unity at UH. Welcome aboard, Alex—Student
                           Affairs is excited to embark on this journey with you! 
Written By Dhivyadharshini Selvaraj – Marketing and Communications Coordinator- Student
                           Affairs