Chad Garland, senior director of University Center, student life and event services at the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs campus, has been named director of the Memorial Union (MU), effective April 15. The MU, built in 1928, is part of campus life, which is within the division of student affairs.
Chad Garland
With more than 316,000 square feet, the MU is home to many beloved ISU traditions as well as student service offices, several ISU Dining venues and the university bookstore. Garland will provide strategic oversight and oversee operations and student engagement, which supports more than 900 student organizations, the M-Shop, Workspace and more.
"We are excited for Chad to bring his skills and experiences to Iowa State to support our Memorial Union as we build on efforts to enhance the student experience and foster a vibrant campus community," said Michael Harwood, associate vice president for campus life and director of residence.
Garland brings to Iowa State more than 25 years of higher education experience, including significant time working in various areas of campus life. Prior to Colorado, he served as associate director of the student center at Miami University, Oxford, Ohio (2013-15) and as University Center manager and assistant director of conference services at Central Michigan University, Mount Pleasant (2011-13). Other roles at Central Michigan included residence hall director and assistant director of the office of student life.
Garland earned a bachelor's degree in zoology from Ohio Wesleyan University, Delaware, and a master's degree in college student affairs leadership from Grand Valley State University, Allendale, Michigan. Additionally, he has completed coursework towards a Ph.D. in higher, adult and lifelong education from Michigan State University.
MU associate directors Kristine Heflin and Brad Hill, who have served as co-interim directors since the death of former director Steve Winfrey last April, will continue in that role until mid-April.
"I am extremely grateful to Brad and Kristine for their leadership during this interim period," Harwood said. "They have navigated through a challenging time for the Memorial Union with excellence and an outstanding dedication to service."
