Vice President Student Affairs
Dr. Sarah Vandermark is a transformational higher education leader with more than 25 years of progressive experience driving student success, retention, and institutional effectiveness. With expertise in academic advisement, first-year experience programming, and organizational change, Vandermark has served in senior leadership roles at several institutions, including Utah Tech University, New Jersey City University, and the New Jersey Institute of Technology.
While serving as senior associate provost and dean at Utah Tech University (an open enrollment institution offering associate/baccalaureate degrees), Vandermark expanded and implemented a two-credit course, Trailblazer Connections, an innovative three-day freshman experience designed to foster acclimation, engagement, and awareness of campus resources. As a result of this and other student success initiatives, the university achieved an 11 percent increase in bachelor-seeking student retention and a 13 percent rise in first-time freshmen retention.
As a passionate advocate for equity in education, she is also the founder and CEO of Mentorforlife, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting first-generation and underrepresented college students through mentorship and scholarships. Known for her collaborative leadership style, data-informed decision-making, and commitment to building inclusive campus environments, Vandermark holds a Ph.D. in Counselor Education from Montclair State University, as well as a master's degree from Northeastern University and a bachelor's degree from Wilkes University in student development and psychology.
Her career reflects a steadfast, dedication to improving the student experience through innovation, cross-campus partnerships, and strategic program development. Vandermark also enjoys hiking and spending time with her dog, Zion (named after Zion National Park from her time in St. George, Utah), as well as a passion for home restoration and refurbishing furniture.