Howard Bailey will retire from his position as vice president for Student Affairs on December 31. Bailey has worked in higher education for 45 years, seven of which have been as vice president for Student Affairs.

Aside from a year at NC State University, Bailey has spent his career entirely at WKU. According to an email from President Gary Ransdell to all faculty and staff, Bailey started as a residence hall director at Barnes Campbell Hall, moved to Pearce-Ford Tower and later was hired in Student Affairs. He has served one term as staff regent on the Board of Regents, and also served as dean of students prior to his VP role, which he took in 2008.

“It has been an honor and a privilege to know Howard throughout his career at WKU and to personally work closely with him these last 18 years,” Ransdell said in the email. “He is a valued member of our University leadership team, the Administrative Council, and has earned respect from his colleagues and peers.”