Dear Capital Community,
I am pleased to share that following a national search, Damon Brown has been appointed as Capital University’s inaugural Vice President for Student Experience, with a start date of June 8, 2026 (remote) and a full on-campus transition beginning June 22, 2026.
Damon brings more than 25 years of progressive leadership in higher education and currently serves as vice president for Student Affairs and Chief Diversity Officer at Alma College, where he has led a comprehensive, student-centered division focused on retention, belonging, and holistic student development. His experience aligns closely with Capital’s vision for an integrated student experience, including oversight of student success, career development, engagement, wellness, and residential life, areas central to this newly established division.
Throughout his career, Damon has demonstrated a strong commitment to student outcomes, including measurable gains in retention, the development of living-learning communities, and the implementation of data-informed strategies that support students from their transition to college through graduation and beyond.
In response to his appointment, Damon said:
“I am truly honored and excited to join the Capital University community. What drew me to Capital was its strong sense of community and shared commitment to students. I felt a real connection with the students, faculty, and staff who I met during the interview process. I look forward to bringing my passion for student success, belonging, and collaborative leadership to this role, and to working with the campus community to build something special together. I want to help students discover their purpose and passion and how those align with their life values.”
The creation of the Division for the Student Experience represents an important and intentional step forward for Capital University. By bringing together all of student affairs, student success, career development, and forward-facing student experiences into a unified, collaborative structure, we are positioning the University to holistically support students from the moment they are admitted through their transition to alumni, ensuring a seamless, integrated, and purpose-driven experience.
As part of this work, the division will strengthen coordination across key areas, including academic support, engagement, wellness, and career preparation, while deepening collaboration with Academic Affairs, Enrollment Management, Athletics, and other partners across the institution. This integrated approach reflects our commitment to supporting the whole student, academically, socially, emotionally, and professionally, grounded in our mission and values.
An Ohio native, Damon earned undergraduate degrees in sport science and business administration from Ohio University, and a master’s degree in physical education and sport from Central Michigan University. He is finishing a doctorate in Educational Leadership from Youngstown State University and expects to graduate this August. Damon and his wife, Dr. Tosha Brown, have three daughters.
Please join me in welcoming Damon to Capital University.