Brian L. Watkins (he/him) is Assistant Dean of Students and Director of Essential Needs Services and the founder of Fostering Terp Success. As part of the Dean of Students Office, Brian leads education, prevention, and emergency relief programs addressing the basic needs core areas of food security, housing security, and financial stability, as well as other essential needs that impact student health, well-being, belonging, and academic success. Brian joined the university as Director of Family Engagement, a position he held for 19 years, and recently co-chaired the Division of Student Affairs’ Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Strategic Plan.

With more than 25 years of experience working in higher education, he has served in a variety of leadership positions focused on new student and family transition and support; student engagement and success; equity and inclusion; leadership development; and communication and crisis management. A first-generation college graduate, Brian earned a Master of Education degree in higher education and student affairs administration from The University of Vermont and a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology from Hope College. He completed doctoral coursework in American Studies at the University of Maryland and remains a lifelong scholar. Brian has received several honors and awards, including the AHEPPP Founders’ Outstanding Professional Award, University of Maryland Division of Student Affairs Outstanding Service Award, and induction into Omicron Delta Kappa.

Brian is a firm believer in radical hospitality, which explains why he's a dog person.