FITCHBURG — Fitchburg State University Dean of Students Tim St. John has been selected to participate in the American Association of State Colleges and Universities’ (AASCU) Emerging Leadership Program in Washington, D.C.
According to a statement from Fitchburg State University, the Emerging Leadership Program is designed to prepare academic and administrative professionals to lead campus initiatives and move into more senior leadership roles. Throughout the program, participants will evaluate their personal leadership styles and strengths, then apply the skills gained during instruction to a project or initiative at their home campus during the academic year.
“Tim St. John has been a trusted partner during an important period of transition at Fitchburg State, and his leadership continues to elevate the student experience in meaningful ways,” said Fitchburg State President Donna Hodge. “As someone who deeply values the impact of AASCU’s leadership development programs, I know this experience will not only strengthen Tim’s work but also further our efforts to build a more inclusive, engaged, and student-ready campus. I’m incredibly proud that Tim will represent Fitchburg State among a national cohort of changemakers.”
(Photo credit: Fitchburg State University)
St. John, who joined Fitchburg State in January 2024 and assumed the role of chief student affairs officer in May 2025, said he is honored to be selected for the program.
“I am deeply honored to have been selected for this prestigious program,” St. John said. “I’m incredibly grateful to President Hodge for encouraging me to apply and for her unwavering support of my professional growth and development. Participating in ELP will deepen my understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities facing public higher education today, while strengthening my leadership skills to meet this critical moment.”
As part of the program, St. John will focus on building strategic initiatives for specialized student populations, including online students, adult learners, veterans, and students who are parents.
As part of the AASCU program, St. John will lead a campus-based project focused on building a coalition of campus colleagues to enhance belonging and engagement among online students, Fitchburg State University said in its statement.
“I look forward to applying the insights and skills gained through ELP in meaningful ways to impact both my work and leadership at Fitchburg State — always in service to our incredible students,” St. John said.
St. John previously held roles at Clark University and the University of New England.