Dickinson State University (DSU) has promoted Mackenzie Hicks to assistant dean of campus life and Ashley Tillman to assistant dean of student support.
Hicks earned her Bachelor of Science in music education from DSU and a Master of Arts in music from the University of Mary. She began her career at DSU as campus activities coordinator before being promoted to director of campus life. In that role, she oversaw all campus life functions, including housing, student activities, student conduct and student organizations.
Hicks has provided vibrant campus programming and leadership development opportunities aimed at boosting recruitment and retention.
“I am honored to step into this new role and continue serving the Blue Hawk community,” Hicks said. “I look forward to building on the strong traditions of campus life while creating new opportunities for students to thrive.”
Tillman holds a Bachelor of Science in human services leadership from the University of Wisconsin–Oshkosh. She began her DSU career as a career development and disability services specialist, advocating for students with disabilities to ensure they received proper accommodations. In that position, she also helped students develop career skills through workshops and other resources.
She later became a student success advisor, forming one-on-one connections with students to support academic planning and degree completion.
“I have always been passionate about helping students reach their personal and academic goals,” Tillman said. “This new role allows me to expand that work and collaborate with our entire student affairs team to remove barriers and support student success.”
The assistant dean positions are part of DSU’s newly integrated Division of Student Affairs, which includes campus life, campus safety and security, financial aid, health and counseling services, DSU Williston and Bismarck, and the Student Opportunities and Resource (SOAR) Center. Both Hicks and Tillman will report to Kayla Noah, vice president of student affairs and dean of students.
“Mackenzie and Ashley bring a wealth of experience, dedication and student-centered leadership to their new roles,” Noah said. “Their work will be instrumental in enhancing the student experience at DSU and supporting our mission to foster an environment where every student can succeed.”
With these promotions, DSU strengthens its commitment to providing comprehensive support services that promote student engagement, well-being and achievement.