Walsh University has appointed Dr. Rachel Hosler Vice President of Student Affairs effective September 4, 2023. Dr. Hosler had previously served as the Interim Vice President for Student Affairs since February as well as the University’s Chief of Staff. With the new appointment, Hosler will relinquish her role as Chief of Staff but retain her role as Secretary on Walsh University’s Board of Directors.
“We look forward to Rachel leading the charge in this critical area to foster and further a vibrant student life as well as lead cross-enterprise collaborative efforts as a Cabinet member to further advance our mission as a leader in Catholic higher education and Walsh 4.0 initiatives,” President Tim Collins said.
Dr. Hosler, a two-time Walsh alum, brings to her role more than 20 years of experience in higher education with extensive knowledge and involvement in student development and experiential learning. In 2022, she was appointed Chief of Staff, providing complex and confidential cross-enterprise project management in support of the University’s 2035 vision and mission.
“I am honored and humbled to serve in this leadership role that will allow me to have a larger impact on student development and success,” Hosler said. “Guided by our Catholic faith, I am committed to fostering an environment where each student is supported, challenged, and empowered to grow academically, spiritually, and personally. I look forward to working alongside our faculty, staff, and coaches to prepare our students not only for successful careers but also for their life’s purpose."
Prior to serving as Chief of Staff, Dr. Hosler served as the Associate Dean of Experiential Learning and supervised the offices of Global Learning, Service-Learning and the Career Readiness and Development Center, coordinating their efforts for a more strategic alignment of resources and mission. New offerings under Dr. Hosler’s leadership as Associate Dean included academic programs in Latin America, a Peace Corps prep program, a Leaders in Social Justice program, and a scholars learning community for underrepresented students. Under her guidance, the Office of Global Learning added 20 new programs and doubled the number of Walsh students studying abroad each year in more than 13 countries.
Dr. Hosler served as a regional leader with the NAFSA: Association of International Educators for six years and received the George Hertich Advocacy Award in 2021. She was recognized twice as the Mentor of the Year, having earned the honor in 2012 and 2021. She was named to Crain’s Cleveland Business Magazine 2019 Notable Women of the Year and was honored as a member of the 2019 class of ystark! Twenty Under 40 professional leaders. In 2021, Dr. Hosler was nominated to serve as the Board Chair for the North Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce.
Dr. Hosler earned both a Bachelor’s in Education and Master of Arts in Counseling & Human Development from Walsh University, and her Ed.D. in Higher Education Leadership from Maryville University of Saint Louis.
