W&L Appoints Laura Ulmer Director of Student Activities Ulmer previously worked as director for the Office of Student Conduct and Academic Integrity at Old Dominion University.

By Brian Laubscher
January 9, 2023

Washington and Lee University announced its hiring of Laura Ulmer, who will serve as the new director of student activities. Ulmer began her appointment on Jan. 3.

Ulmer will be responsible for strategic planning and implementation of campus life programming to cultivate a vibrant and active co-curricular life on W&L’s campus. She will provide logistical support for on-campus events, as well as serve as an advisor to various clubs, organizations and groups as a key member of the Student Affairs staff.

“I am thrilled to join the W&L community and provide exciting opportunities for students to develop meaningful relationships through fun and intentional programming,” said Ulmer.

Ulmer comes to W&L from Old Dominion University, where she worked as the director for the Office of Student Conduct and Academic Integrity since 2015. In this role, she oversaw the institution’s student conduct process in support of the university’s mission and values.

Her extensive educational experience also includes five years as the coordinator of student rights and responsibilities at the University of Louisville, and three years overseeing leadership, academic enrichment and organizational development at Wingate University. Additionally, she previously served as a graduate assistant in the department of campus life at Ohio University.

“Laura brings a wealth of experience in leadership and advising, as well as organizational and student development,” said Dave Leonard, dean of student life. “We are fortunate to have hired not only a gifted student affairs practitioner, but a genuinely warm person that will naturally collaborate with students and other members of our community.”

Ulmer has received numerous awards throughout her professional career, including the Innovation in Research and Publication Award from the National Behavioral Intervention Team Association (2018) and the Outstanding New Professional Award from the University of Louisville Student Affairs division (2012). She has also served on a number of educational committees and advisory boards.

Ulmer received a B.A. in psychology from the University of Mount Union, a M.Ed. in college student personnel services from Ohio University and a Ph.D. in counseling and personnel services from the University of Louisville.