Sean Blackburn Named UW Associate Vice President and Dean of Students

Sean Blackburn has been selected as University of Wyoming associate vice president and dean of students. He begins his UW duties July 1.

Blackburn currently is the associate dean of students at Winthrop University in Rock Hill, S.C., a position he’s held since 2012. He also is the Leadership Studies director at Winthrop University. With an enrollment of more than 6,000 students, the school blends liberal arts, professional programs, global understanding and civic engagement.

He holds a master of education in student affairs administration from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech) in Blacksburg, Va. He also earned a bachelor’s degree there in political science with a minor in psychology.

Blackburn also has held positions at Virginia Tech and the University of Wisconsin-River Falls.

“Sean brings more than 13 years of progressively responsible experience in student development, residence life, fraternity and sorority life, student conduct and student leadership studies to UW,” says Sara Axelson, vice president for student affairs.

Blackburn says he looks forward to contributing to a campus culture that is focused on student success and engagement.

“I have long been attracted to the University of Wyoming for its high quality academic programs, vibrant campus community and student-centered approach to learning,” Blackburn says. “I was so warmly welcomed to campus in April and impressed with the faculty, staff and students I met.”

Blackburn has served on many professional organizations and has made presentations at many local and national meetings; has been awarded a nearly $300,000 grant to study ways to reduce sexual assault and domestic violence; and has been published in many professional publications.

He is a member of the Association for Student Conduct Administration and Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education (NASPA). Blackburn has received several local, state and regional honors and is a volunteer in his community.

“It is an exciting time to be a Cowboy and to be part of setting the gold standard in higher education,” he adds. “Laramie is a wonderful place to raise a family. We look forward to being a part of UW and the Laramie community.”

He and his wife, Sarah, have three children: Christopher, 9; Reagan, 7; and Katherine, 3.