Roane State Community College

Important Links

• Student Handbook
• Be Safe at Roane State
• Behavioral Intervention Team (BIT)
• Faculty and Staff Information

Dean of Students

Lisa Steffensen
Click above for email address
(865) 882-4540

Schedule an appointment with Dr. Steffensen at the Harriman Campus

Schedule an appointment with Dr. Steffensen at the Oak Ridge Campus

To request an appointment at one of the other campuses, please email.

Technical Clerk

Tina Messamore
Click above for email address
(865) 354-3000 ext. 4716

What Is a Dean of Students?

Most colleges have a Dean of Students or Dean of Student Affairs office. Whatever the name, the office generally oversees a variety of student related programs that have an impact on the student’s college experience. In most instances, the Dean of Students will manage student activities, enforce disciplinary policies when needed, and work with other departments on the students’ behalf.

At Roane State, the Dean of Students oversees a wide variety of student related programs. For most questions related to assignments or grades in a class, you would likely go see your instructor. However if something outside the classroom is having an impact on your classroom success or your college experience, the Dean of Students can often help. If you are having problems with your living situation, health issues, a learning difference or disability, personal problems, or conflicts with other students, the Dean of Students can often offer resources.

Your Dean of Students is here to help you find solutions to your problems. I will connect you with people on or off campus who might be better able to work with you and address your concerns. I’m also happy to talk with you about ways to enhance your college experience by becoming involved in a wide variety of campus life activities.

Unfortunately there are times when a student’s first encounter with the Dean of Students might be negative or uncomfortable. For instance, if an instructor has charged a student with academic misconduct, the Dean of Students office may become involved. Even in disciplinary cases, the Dean of Students will still advise you of your student rights and explore your options within due process and the Roane State Student Conduct Policy.

The Dean of Students office works in tandem with the campus community to encourage and support the Vision, Mission and Values of the college. Ultimately my goal is the success of our students.

CORE VALUES

• Advocate for the needs of all students.
• Encourage student responsibility and leadership.
• Promote a diverse and socially responsible campus community.

GOALS

• To promote and facilitate a safe and secure campus learning environment.
• To foster an environment that encourages respect and responsibility.
• To fairly administer the student policies and guidelines set forth by the institution and the Tennessee Board of Regents.
• To uphold the due process rights of students.

When Do You Contact the Dean of Students Office?

If you aren't sure if the Dean of Students is the right place to go with a question, a request, or information, stop in any way. We know life happens and many things outside the classroom may cause problems for you in the classroom. There can be illness, loss of loved ones, and many other circumstances causing you to struggle in the classroom. We want to help you or help you figure out where you should go for help.