Dean of student affairs for the MCV Campus retires after 23 years

By Malorie Burkett

Dr. Robert L. Clifton, dean of student affairs for the Medical College of Virginia Campus, will retire this month after 23 years of service to the university.

Clifton, who was recognized by the university community at a recent reception held in his honor, came to VCU in 1981 when he accepted the position of dean of student affairs, MCV Campus.

"I shall miss the incredible student body, faculty and staff at VCU," said Clifton. "People always seemed to go out of their way to help me be successful."

During his tenure, Clifton and his office served as the primary liaison between the organized student body on the MCV Campus and the university, providing coordination and leadership for Student Affairs and related staff. He represented the Division of Student Affairs on several university-wide committees, including Leadership Awards, Parking Appeals, Larrick Student Center Advisory Board and Student Affairs Executive Group. He also participated in the general orientation sessions for each school on the MCV Campus.

In addition, Clifton says he will miss the dedication and leadership of the students on the MCV Student Government Association and Honor Council, for which he served as faculty adviser. While serving as Honor Council adviser, he maintained an open-door policy and advised students on university-related problems or procedures.

Before coming to VCU, Clifton held the position of assistant to the dean, Student Affairs, School of Medicine at Wayne State University in Detroit. He received his Master of Arts degree from East Michigan University in 1969 and his Doctor of Education from Wayne State University in 1977.