UT Tyler Announces New Vice President for Student Affairs

July 8, 2026 | Beverley Golden

The University of Texas at Tyler has named Dr. Melinda J. Sutton the new vice president for student affairs, effective Aug. 17.

“Dr. Melinda Sutton is a nationally respected leader in student affairs, and her experience and energy will strengthen the momentum we’re building for our students at UT Tyler,” said UT Tyler President Julie V. Philley, MD.

A nationally respected student affairs leader, Sutton currently serves as the associate vice president for student affairs and dean of students at Southern Methodist University, providing leadership for student support programs, health services, student engagement and campus life.

A Texas native, Sutton previously served at UT Tyler as director of student development, helping shape the student experience during a formative period in our university’s growth. Since then, she has built a reputation for thoughtful leadership, student advocacy and organizational excellence through leadership roles at the University of Mississippi, The University of Texas at Austin and Southern Methodist University. She is also actively involved in several national professional organizations and earned her Ph.D. in higher education administration from UT Austin, a master’s in education from Indiana University and a bachelor’s degree from SMU.

“With her commitment to student success, expertise in student wellbeing and understanding of both UT Tyler and our region, I am confident she will make a meaningful impact on the lives of our students and campus community,” Philley said.