UA Names Myron Pope Vice President for Student Life

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — Dr. Myron L. Pope, an Alabama native who earned three degrees from the Capstone, has been named The University of Alabama’s vice president for student life effective May 4.

Pope comes to UA after a distinguished higher education career in Oklahoma. He was in student affairs and enrollment management at the University of Central Oklahoma, including 14 years in vice presidential roles. Most recently he has served as chief of strategic engagement for the Oklahoma Department of Human Services.

“As an alumnus of the University, Dr. Pope brings both a wealth of knowledge and leadership in higher education and a very special personal perspective to our administrative team,” said UA President Stuart R. Bell. “He will be a tremendous asset to our students and the campus community.”

Pope’s experience includes faculty appointments at the University of Oklahoma and the University of Central Oklahoma. At OU he was also associate director of the Center for Student Affairs Research.

Pope earned a Bachelor of Arts in history and a Master of Arts and Doctor of Education in higher education administration from the Capstone. The Sweet Water native was a walk-on member of the Crimson Tide’s 1992 national championship football team. He was also a member of the administrative staff at The University of Alabama, serving as director of recruitment programs/alternative certification from 1997 to 2000 and as a clinical assistant professor in the higher education administrative program.

In his vice presidential roles at UCO, Pope helped develop and implement plans to increase student success, retention rates and enrollment. He collaborated with the provost to create plans focused on diversity and inclusion in student life and the curriculum.

He led efforts to compete for sponsorships and grants that helped create and enhance numerous student programs and scholarships, including $19 million in grant support from the U.S. Department of Education.

A seasoned scholar, Pope has written extensively on student success, diversity, retention and globalization, giving more than 100 presentations and writing articles in dozens of refereed publications on best practices in student-focused areas.

Pope has been involved in local, state and national organizations and initiatives related to education, families and public service. He is a member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc.

“I am honored and humbled to return to the Capstone, and I look forward to playing a role in promoting the success of all of our students,” said Pope. “I want to thank President Bell for this opportunity, and I look forward to working with him, the division of Student Life and leadership to advance the mission of this institution that I love dearly. Roll Tide.”