Vice President for Student Affairs

Damon Sims began as Vice President for Student Affairs at Penn State on August 1, 2008, after serving in various administrative and teaching roles at Indiana University since 1982. Damon received his bachelor’s degree in political science and history, as well as his law degree, from Indiana University. He holds affiliate associate professor appointments in both the School of Law at University Park and the College of Education at Penn State, and participates in the overall leadership of the University. He is a licensed attorney who has served as an advocate on behalf of children and victims of abuse, consults with other colleges and universities about legal issues affecting students, and has served on various state and regional boards and commissions aimed at encouraging civic awareness and engagement among young people.

Primarily, Damon is concerned for the overall well-being of all Penn State students and their success, and leads Student Affairs staff in 31 administrative units that include Campus Recreation, Career Services, the Center for Spiritual and Ethical Development, the Gender Equity Center, Counseling and Psychological Services, Fraternity and Sorority Life and Fraternity and Sorority Compliance, the Center for Sexual and Gender Diversity, the Parents Program, the Paul Robeson Cultural Center, Residence Life, Student Conduct, Student Legal Services, Union and Student Activities, University Health Services, Sexual Misconduct Prevention and Response, the Center for Character, Conscience, and Public Purpose, and Student Affairs Research & Assessment.