Florida State University has appointed Austin McDonald as assistant dean of Undergraduate Studies and the new director of the Center for Academic Retention and Enhancement (CARE), which serves first-generation undergraduate students and others who may face challenges in college such as economic or educational circumstances.
McDonald has served as program director in CARE since 2023, including as the faculty director for First-Generation Noles Living-Learning Community (FGEN-Noles LLC), a first-year residence hall community for first-generation students.
Dean of Undergraduate Studies DeOnte Brown, who previously served as director of CARE, said McDonald was appointed for his student-centered approach and innovative spirit.
“Dr. McDonald’s genuine and humble personality allows him to develop rapport with colleagues and students in a way that shows value for everyone,” Brown said. “I have appreciated his intentional engagement with students to support them in maximizing the opportunities in college and also in challenging them to exceed their own expectations. He has also shown a commitment to our staff and faculty in CARE by supporting and encouraging them to engage in research and assessment work or offering professional learning moments.”
The CARE director and assistant dean role works with both Undergraduate Studies and Student Affairs divisions. Associate Vice President for Student Affairs Brandon Bowden said he is excited to work with McDonald.
“We have full confidence in and commitment to Dr. McDonald’s success,” Bowden said. “His previous work in other Student Affairs divisions and his current engagement in our programs will only help to amplify our student services and support not only for CARE students, but so many students beyond CARE.”
McDonald helped launch the inaugural year of the FGEN LLC in 2022. During his four years in that role, he has supported more than 240 first-year, first-generation students, helping to sustain a retention rate above a 96%.
He has helped lead and manage nearly 200% growth in CARE over the past three years and the expansion of the student support programs QUEST and Illuminate. He worked to grow the CARE-specific Engage 100 programs that serve 700 first-year students yearly, including those in the Summer Bridge Program for incoming first-year CARE students.
“CARE has been a Florida State University legacy for over 58 years, and as I transition into this role, I acknowledge the students, alumni, staff and faculty who have all contributed to this important legacy over time,” McDonald said. “I plan to shine the light of the incredible students that encompass FSU’s CARE department through the emphasis of student-centered learning, development, and experiences. I am truly excited for this opportunity to lead, serve and contribute to the FSU community.”
Before coming to FSU, McDonald held leadership and academic roles at Clemson University, Mercer University and Bethune-Cookman University.
McDonald is a graduate of Stillman College, having earned his bachelor’s degree in English (Secondary Education). His graduate education includes a Master of Education from Mercer University and a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership from Clemson University. He continues to pursue research about higher education organizational psychology, HBCU professional job burnout and relationship building with specialized student populations.