Christian Brothers University Names Beth Gerl as Vice President for Student Development and Campus Life

Beth Gerl has joined Christian Brothers University in the position of Vice President for Student Development and Campus Life, effective June 30.

Gerl has dedicated her career to higher education and creating intentional learning opportunities that prepare, support and engage students. As a first-generation college student from southern Illinois, Gerl received her Bachelor of Arts from Illinois Wesleyan University and her Master of Science in Counselor Education/Higher Education from Illinois State University.

In the last year, Gerl had the opportunity to serve as Vice President for Student Services at an Illinois community college where she oversaw Academic Counseling, Health Services, Athletics and Recreation, Financial and Veterans Services, TRIO, Student Activities, Admissions and Enrollment, Career Services, Communications and Marketing, and Crisis Management. As a result of her Community College experience, she has acquired significant knowledge and understanding of the value of two-year degree and certification opportunities, as well as the transitional services and support that are needed for transfer students.

For the preceding 13 years, Gerl served as Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students at McDaniel College in Westminster, Maryland. Her areas of responsibility there included Residence Life, Judicial Affairs, Title IX, Student Conduct, Student Activities, Greek Affairs, Orientation, Health and Counseling Services, Diversity and Inclusion, Food Service, Campus Center Operations, Department of Campus Policy, Career Services and the Threat Assessment and Crisis Management Team. Prior to her work at McDaniel College, Beth served as the Vice President and Dean of Students at Spring Hill College in Mobile, Alabama where she provided oversight to Intercollegiate Athletics, Recreation and Intramurals, Student Activities, the Wellness Center, Emergency/Hurricane Operations, Food Service, Residence Life and Orientation.

Her background and experiences also include working at both Parkland Community College and Clark State University. In the latter role, she facilitated individual and group counseling while also serving as an Instructor. She also has served in leadership positions at Hendrix College, University of Mount Union, Wittenberg University and Illinois State University.

Gerl has served on multiple nonprofit and youth advocate boards including Habitat for Humanity and the Red Cross.