Lewis, an Alfred University alumnus who worked from 2005-15 in the University’s Admissions Office, returns to Alfred after two years as station manager at WLEA/WCKR radio station in Hornell. His previous tenure at Alfred included five years (2010-15) as assistant director of admissions.
‘“I am happy to welcome John Lewis back as a Saxon!” said Kathy Woughter, Alfred University vice president of Student Affairs. “His energy, enthusiasm and personality are a great fit for our Center for Student Involvement, and his local connections along with his experience in radio and music are huge pluses for our students.”
“I couldn’t be more excited than I am to come back to Alfred University in this particular role,” said Lewis, a native of Hornell who graduated from Alfred in 2003 with a bachelor’s degree in communications studies. “When I worked in admissions, whenever I crossed paths with people from Student Affairs, they’d say I should be in that area and be on that team. That time has come.”
As director of Student Activities, Lewis will be responsible for overseeing Alfred University’s clubs and student organizations, which number more than 80; organizing large events, such as the annual Hot Dog Day celebration and on-campus concerts; and managing the Powell Campus center.
He takes over for Tricia Debertolis, assistant dean for new student program, who has been overseeing Student Activities on an interim basis. Dan Napolitano, assistant dean in the School of Art and Design and chief diversity officer at Alfred University, was director of Student Activities for more than 20 years before leaving that post this summer.
“We are so excited to have John be our next Director of Student Activities,” Debertolis said. “His energy and enthusiasm is contagious and we are lucky to have him.”
Lewis was involved in a host of activities while a student at Alfred University – his time as a student tour guide led to him being hired as an admissions counselor at his alma mater – and feels it was an important part of his college experience. He said he looks forward to working with students to help make their experience at Alfred University a good one.
“In this new role, I’ll get to know current students better, working with them and for them,” he said. “This is more than just organizing concerts, entertainment and clubs; it’s working with students and helping them take ownership in their organizations.”
