The new dean of students will have to trade in the color orange for some green when she joins the University of Oregon on Sept. 19.

Kris Winter, the current interim dean of student life at Oregon State University, will take on the role, according to an announcement from Robin Holmes, the UO’s vice president for student life.

“We knew our ideal candidate would be keenly aware of the importance of a successful student experience, would be able to establish a culture where equity and inclusion is encouraged and enacted, and would have strong skills in a traditional dean of students’ portfolio,” Holmes said. “I believe we have found all of these qualities and more in Kris.”

As an alum of the UO, Winter is excited to be returning to the university community to lead and support opportunities for student success.

“I am delighted to come back home to a place that has given so much to me,” Winter said. “Working with students and their families to be successful in their academic pursuits is such important and meaningful work.”

Prior to her position as interim dean, Winter served as both the assistant and associate dean of student life at OSU.

“The dean of students office is integral to ensuring students can be their best and focus on their academics,” Winter said. “Removing barriers, responding in crisis, building community and upholding integrity are important parts of serving college students and their families. I look forward to meeting with faculty, staff and especially students in the weeks to come.”