Dean of Students

The Office of the Dean of Students fosters an inclusive environment that encourages holistic student engagement, development, and success inside and outside of the classroom. Through the creation of a strong campus community in which people from all cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives feel welcome and celebrated, we encourage students to become active citizens of Hofstra and the world. The Dean of Students Office promotes responsible and ethical decision-making that demonstrates integrity and respect for self and others.

In order to help students reach their academic, professional, and personal goals, the Dean of Students Office directly supports the staff members who direct the following offices: Student Wellness Education; Community Standards; HofstraCard Services; the Interfaith Center; Commuting Student Services and Community Outreach; Campus Recreation; Residence Life; and Student Leadership and Engagement, which includes Orientation and New Student Programs, Intercultural Engagement and Inclusion, LGBTQ+ Programming and Advocacy, Fraternity and Sorority Life, and Community Service.

The Dean of Students Office promotes responsible and ethical decision-making that demonstrates integrity and respect for self and others. The Dean of Students Office strives to create a sense of community and an inclusive environment in which all people feel welcome, and all cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives are shared and celebrated. In addition, the office encourages students to become active and engaged citizens of the Hofstra, local and global communities.

Originally from Bridgeport, Connecticut, Chermele completed her undergrad career at Saint Peter’s University in Jersey City, New Jersey, where she earned her degree in elementary education. She then went on to earn a master’s degree in Special Education (MSED) from Wagner College, Staten Island, New York. Throughout Chermele’s 15+ years in higher education, she has been a constant source of school spirit and a fierce advocate for all students. Chermele began at Hofstra in 2015 as Associate Director for Residence Life, and now returns home to Hofstra, after her time at Xavier University in Louisiana, as Hofstra’s Associate Dean of Students.

In her free time she can be found with her son at most every Hofstra home basketball game, supporting him at his own athletic events, or at the local dog park with their goldendoodle. If you have not worked with Chermele, listen closely and most likely you can hear her contagious laugh throughout Hofstra campus.