FSU hires first assistant vice president for Career Services to further student advancement

Rob Liddell has been named FSU's first assistant vice president for Career Services and will start in this new role on Aug. 13.

Florida State University has hired a new assistant vice president for Career Services to bring career preparation efforts to new heights, furthering partnerships with academic deans, institutional research and industry while also innovating career services efforts.

Rob Liddell, former executive director at the Center for Career and Leadership Development at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, will start in this new position on Aug. 13.

“The Florida State University Career Center has built a stellar reputation for integrating academic and career readiness, pioneering thought leadership and scholarship, and leading the way in shaping the field across the Southeast, nationally and globally,” Liddell said. “I am absolutely thrilled to accept the invitation to serve as Florida State University’s inaugural assistant vice president for Career Services.”

Liddell brings more than 15 years of experience in career services and is a well-respected national leader in career preparation.

“We are committed to helping our students succeed while at FSU as well as ensuring they have opportunities and access to make significant connections with employers for their future,” said Amy Hecht, vice president for Student Affairs.  “I am grateful for the president and provost’s support of our efforts to develop a best-in-class operation to better serve our students and alumni.”

During his seven years at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, he initiated and developed a unit re-brand to incorporate an existing leadership education effort by establishing programming around exploration, discovery, connecting and achievement.

“The energy at FSU is simply infectious, blending a deep respect for tradition with a forward-looking embrace of the future,” Liddell said. “I am inspired by the diverse and talented students drawn to study, live and contribute to this extraordinary institution. As an FSU alum, returning home fills me with immense pride.”

Prior to his role at University of Tennessee, Liddell served as director of Career Planning at Saint Leo University where he led the employer service unit to maximize employment and internship opportunities through creative, strategic engagement with alumni, faculty and community collaborators. He has championed research-based programs, services and educational initiatives to impact student success and help prepare students for their professional lives.

Liddell earned his doctorate in curriculum and instruction, higher education administration and a master’s degree in management focused on leadership and organizational effectiveness from the University of South Florida. He graduated from FSU with a bachelor’s degree in religion and said he is looking forward to his return.

“I am grateful for the president and provost’s support of our efforts to develop a best-in-class operation to better serve our students and alumni,” Hecht said.

For more information on how the FSU Career Center equips students with the career skills and experiences they need to meet the needs of today’s employers, visit career.fsu.edu.