Michael Harwood joined Iowa State University as the Associate Vice President for Campus Life and Director for Residence in August 2023.
Harwood has over 30 years of experience in student affairs. Prior to his arrival at ISU, he served in senior leadership positions, including associate vice president for student success at Minnesota State University Moorhead and assistant vice president and assistant dean of student life at North Dakota State University.
Reporting to the senior vice president for student affairs, the associate vice president for campus life and director of residence (AVPCL) helps advance the mission and goals of the Division of Student Affairs.
Harwood has oversight of Campus Life which is comprised of three auxiliary operations within Student Affairs, including the Department of Residence, ISU Dining, the Memorial Union. The AVPCL supervises the directors within these areas to create aligned, collaborative, and student-centered strategies within the three areas. Overall, Campus Life is comprised of nearly 500 full-time employees and over 1,700 student staff with an annual operating budget of approximately $114 million.
Within his role as Director of Residence, Harwood maintains overall administrative responsibility for the student housing system with over 10,000 beds and more than 3.3 million square feet of facilities.
“Iowa State University is recognized for providing an outstanding living and learning experience for students,” Harwood said. “Campus Life has the unique opportunity to provide students a home away from home by creating environments where students can live, learn, dine, and engage.”
A native of Whitefish, Montana, Harwood holds a bachelor’s degree in public administration from Montana State University and a master of science degree in counseling and college and student development from Minnesota State University-Mankato.
