Florida State University has selected DeOnte Brown as its next dean of the Division of Undergraduate Studies. Brown, who is currently serving as assistant dean in the division and director of the Center for Academic Retention & Enhancement (CARE), will begin his new role Nov. 14.
As CARE director, Brown has led innovative student success efforts that serve populations such as first-generation students, Pell Grant-eligible students, and those who have experienced homelessness or foster care. He oversaw the expansion of CARE’s programs and services through the QUEST Scholars Program, the Illuminate Program and Scholarship and multiple pre-collegiate programs.
“DeOnte Brown’s visionary leadership has had a lifechanging impact on thousands of students across our university,” said Joe O’Shea, vice president for Student Academic Success. “He has helped create powerful learning environments that support and engage FSU students to reach their highest potential, and I’m excited to see Dr. Brown bring his thoughtfulness and collaborative energy to this new role.”
As a first-generation student from Quincy, Florida, Brown received a bachelor’s degree in public administration from the University of Central Florida, a Master of Education from Florida A&M University and a Doctor of Philosophy in learning sciences from Clemson University.
Brown started at FSU as an academic success coach in 2010, eventually moving into a program coordinator position in CARE. He spent time back at Clemson, where he climbed the ranks in administration, serving as director of retention programs and later assistant dean of students before returning to FSU in 2021 for his current roles within Undergraduate Studies and CARE. The CARE department spans the Division of Undergraduate Studies as well as the Division of Student Affairs.
Brown has secured federal grants totaling several million dollars to support Upward Bound college preparatory programs and Student Support Services programs managed by CARE.
The Iota Delta Chapter of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. presented Brown with the 2024-2025 Most Valuable Faculty Award, and he received a 2020 Outstanding First-Year Student Advocate Award from Cengage and the National Resource Center for The First-Year Experience and Students in Transition.
“My personal commitment to student success is powered by the belief that every student deserves access to opportunity, support and pathways to excellence,” Brown said. “Our outstanding faculty and staff in Undergraduate Studies play a critical role in shaping the undergraduate student experience by fostering student learning, academic engagement and holistic support. Building on the success of prior deans, Dean O’Shea and the late Dean Laughlin and Dean Rackley, I look forward to working alongside faculty, staff and students to continue achieving positive student success results and providing an enriching undergraduate education.”
Brown will continue to lead CARE while FSU conducts a national search for a director.