College appoints Dean of Students

SUNY New Paltz announces the appointment of Robin Cohen-La Valle ’77 (Psychology & Contract) ‘82g (Psychology – Counseling & Organizational Behavior) as dean of students within the Division of Student Affairs. Cohen-La Valle has served as interim dean of students since 2014.

“Through Robin’s long association with SUNY New Paltz, and her ever-increasing levels of responsibility, she has proven herself to be a dedicated and talented professional,” said L. David Rooney, vice president for Student Affairs. “Her appointment as dean of students is well deserved.”

In her time as Interim Dean, Cohen-La Valle collaborated with the Office of Compliance and Campus Climate in updating College policies, protocols and trainings in accordance with Governor Cuomo’s “Enough is Enough” legislation, which is intended to combat sexual assault on college campuses. She works closely with Linda Eaton, associate vice president for Student Affairs, in resolving student judicial matters, and oversees the Disability Resource Center (DRC).

Cohen La-Valle has also been directing the College’s transition to a new conduct management system, which will streamline student record management and increase efficiency of communication between students and the Division of Student Affairs.

She has additionally served as Chairperson of the Personal Safety Committee and as a member of both the Academic Standing Committee and the Transfer Applicant Judicial Review Committee.

“It is truly an honor to work within the Office of Student Affairs,” Cohen La-Valle said. “I look forward to continuing to collaborate with academic and professional colleagues in the pursuit of maintaining high community standards for our students.”

Cohen-La Valle began her career at New Paltz in 1980 in the Career Resource Center, was appointed assistant dean of students in 1995 and was promoted to associate dean of students in 1998. She was a key participant in the creation of the New Paltz Tavern Owner’s Agreement, a principal author in the FIPSE grants that catapulted New Paltz to national recognition for its programming to prevent alcohol abuse, and is a recipient of a Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Professional Service.