SALT LAKE CITY–When students return to campus this fall, they’ll be greeted by a familiar face in a new role: Oliver Anderson, who has worked at Westminster University for 11 years, has been named Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students. Previously, Oliver served as Assistant Dean of Students, Director of Student Involvement and Orientation, and Director of Student Development and Training at Westminster University.
Oliver is well-known on campus for his collaboration with other campus units, which has led to the development and improvement of processes to support student success. He is looking forward to continuing this important work in his new role.
“I’m very excited to have more capacity to work with students, support them in the fun, and help them out when things are hard,” he says.
In this role, Oliver will supervise two assistant deans of students, as well as the director of Campus Security. He will also directly advise the Student Body President of the Associated Students of Westminster (ASW). He hopes that students will take advantage of the incredible Westminster community that they are a part of and will reach out to him or others if they need help.
“This community cares, and we’re always here to help. Never be afraid to ask for help,” he says.
Along with his years of experience working at Westminster University, Oliver brings an impressive background in education and professional leadership to the role. In 2015, he completed a bachelor of science with a dual major in sociology and human development at the University of Utah. He went on to study educational leadership and policy, with an emphasis in student affairs, receiving a master's degree from University of Utah in 2018. Oliver has held numerous leadership roles in national and state associations including National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA); Association for Orientation, Transition, and Retention in Higher Education (NODA), and Utah Professionals in Student Involvement and Leadership (UPSIL).
As he looks forward to the 2026-27 academic year, Oliver hopes that students will get involved on campus and contact him if they need any help.
“I’m super excited for the year, Griffins! It’s going to be a great one. Don’t be afraid to try something new, ask for help, and if you need anything, I’m located in the Shaw Student Center. You can stop by, email, or call whenever. Go Griffins!”
