SJU Dean resigns

Earlier this April, SJU’s Dean of Students Amanda Erdman resigned from her position effective immediately.

An email was sent out to students on Tuesday, April 7 with the news, informing students that JoNes VanHecke would be serving as the SJU Interim Dean of Students to close out the school year.

Erdman previously served as Assistant Dean of Students from Sept. 2022 before assuming the role of Dean in Jan. 2024.

As SJU Dean of Students, Erdman took care of several areas that are meant to support student endeavors.

The Dean of Students oversees general campus life, life safety services, residential life and housing, the J-Book student handbook, the SJU Student Senate and student activities and leadership development.

Mary Geller, Associate Provost for Student Success, hired Erdman and worked with her directly.

“Amanda was a well-educated professional in student affairs. She was energetic, competent, wise and a lot of fun. More importantly, she was committed to student well-being, growth and belonging,” Geller said.

According to Geller, Erdman treated every individual with infinite respect and dignity, meeting each student where they were and providing support wherever it was needed.

The Benedictine values of CSB+SJU are integrated into campus life, stemming from the Rule of St. Benedict. Geller shared how she thought Erdman exemplified these values.

“Amanda exemplified Benedictine practices. She became a part of the St. John’s community very quickly and enjoyed the staff, students and Monastics with whom she interacted. Her greatest joy was advising the St. John’s Senate and the FR program,” Geller said.

When asked about how she felt about Erdman’s resignation, Geller said she was saddened at the news.

“I am always sad to see an exemplary employee leave. I’ve really enjoyed working with Amanda. I’m grateful for the positive impact she has had on the SJU student life programs,” Geller said. “She became a friend and confidant to me during her time here. I’m happy for her and I look forward to cheering her on as she moves on to new endeavors.”

Before coming to SJU, VanHecke was employed as Dean of Students at Central College from 2006-2011, Vice President for Student Development and Dean of Students for Gustavus Adolphus College from 2011-2023 and Vice President of Student Affairs and Dean of Students at St. Catherine’s University from 2023-2025.

“I am thrilled to have the opportunity to serve as the SJU Interim Dean of Students. I have long admired the SJU community and look forward to serving students in the months ahead,” VanHecke said via email. “I hope that students won’t hesitate to reach out if there are ways that I can assist and support them during this hectic time of year.”