University of Findlay’s Dave Emsweller to Retire in December

After 23 years of exemplary service to the University of Findlay, Dave Emsweller, vice president of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management, has decided to retire from the University effective December 31, 2021.

Emsweller’s accomplishments and lasting contributions during his time at UF are extensive. His key projects include coordinating many campus facility construction projects including expanding student housing options, overseeing the design and construction of the Student Recreation Complex, as well as played a lead role in the design and construction of the Center for Student Life and College of Business.

Emsweller also created the Buford Center for Diversity and Service, facilitated the establishment of Oilers Serving Abroad, founded the Oiler Success Center, implemented the Starfish early warning system that has become part of the fabric of the student experience at UF, established our Campus Police Department, increased our counseling and health services, and facilitated the adoption of a merit aid award system.

In addition, he has served as the leader of the University’s emergency response effort for any major crisis that has impacted the University in the last 23 years, and created the comprehensive crisis response plan that will continue to guide how we response in a crisis. He developed and implemented the Oilers Start Safe, Stay Safe Plan that led the university through the last 18 months of the pandemic and will continue to guide us moving forward.

Most recently, Emsweller led the University’s Enrollment Management Division, in addition to his work with Student Affairs.  Under his leadership, the division developed a comprehensive Enrollment Management Strategic Plan that will continue to guide the University’s recruiting, marketing and enrollment efforts for years to come. This fall, the division welcomed the second largest domestic first-time freshmen class in the last 10 years, the largest new international student class since fall 2016, and saw increases in new graduate students.

Prior to coming to Findlay, Emsweller served as Coordinator of Leadership Development and Technology, Residence Halls Association Advisor, and Complex Director at Michigan State University. He also served as the Associate Director of University Housing for Florida International University, and Director of Residence Life for Adrian College.

“I have greatly enjoyed working with Dave during my time at UF and will miss his leadership, unwavering dedication to our students, and doing what is right for UF.  His work here will have a positive, lasting impact on UF that our students will benefit from for decades to come,” stated Dr. Katherine Fell, president of the University of Findlay.

Everyone at UF wishes him, his wife Michelle, and his family, many happy, relaxing years to come as he enjoys his retirement.