Dr. Jonathan Long, new dean of students, adds decades of experience to the Student Affairs team

Baker University is pleased to announce Dr. Jonathan Long as the new dean of students. Long brings more than 30 years of experience in student affairs, higher education leadership, and student engagement. With a distinguished career spanning institutions across the country, he has dedicated his work to fostering student success, inclusivity, and campus well-being.

Long assumes the position today, April 1, in Baldwin City, and will play a key role in enhancing student life at Baker University, overseeing student engagement initiatives, residence life, diversity and inclusion programming, leadership development, counseling services, and student wellness efforts.  His leadership will support Baker University’s mission to provide a transformative educational experience that empowers students to achieve their full potential.

“We are excited to welcome Dr. Long to the Baker University community,” said Dr. Matthew R. Bice, provost and vice president of academic affairs. “His vast experience in student affairs and his passion for student success will be instrumental in further strengthening our campus culture and ensuring that our students feel supported both academically and personally. We look forward to the positive impact he will have on our students and the entire Baker community.”

Long has held leadership positions at higher education institutions including the University of Arizona, Johnson County Community College, and the University of Kansas. His extensive background in student rights and responsibilities, academic support, and campus life programming positions Long well to lead Baker University’s student affairs. Long most recently served as civil rights investigator for the Office of Institutional Equity at the University of Arizona. Before this role, he spent several years with Northern Arizona University in the Office of the Dean of Students supporting student rights and responsibilities.

“I am honored to join Baker University and am excited to work alongside students, faculty, and staff to enhance the overall experience,” Long said. “I look forward to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment where every student feels empowered to grow, succeed, and make the most of their time at Baker.”

Long obtained his bachelor’s degree in speech and drama from the University of Kansas. He furthered his education with a master’s degree in higher education administration from the University of Missouri – Kansas City, and earned a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies from the University of Kansas.

“Dr. Long is an accomplished leader with a wealth of experience and deep understanding of student life that will strengthen our campus community,” said Baker University President Hoot Gibson. “His leadership will enhance student engagement, well-being, and success, ensuring that Baker remains a place where students feel supported both inside and outside the classroom. We look forward to the positive changes he will bring.”

Solidifying Long in his new role as Baker University’s dean of students was led through a national search committee and process chaired by Dr. Cassy Bailey, vice president for enrollment management. The news comes on the heels of two recent leadership announcements from Baker University. Last week, Dr. Jody Fournier was named the 31st president of Baker University; he begins his role on July 1, 2025. Dr. Tina Hartley joins Baker University as the new dean of the College of Arts and Sciences on July 1.