Goodbye Mr. Sims

We are writing to say goodbye to a dear friend and colleague, Damon Sims, associate vice provost for student affairs. Damon is leaving IU for Penn State where he will be vice president of student affairs. Those of us who have been fortunate enough to know and work with Damon over the year, know that he is an exceptionally gifted, intelligent and caring human being. We can only express our sorrow and regret that we are losing
such a fine and vital member of our community.

Damon has played many roles here in addition to his position in the Office of Student Affairs, among them assistant professor of law and assistant professor in educational leadership and policy studies. He recently headed up a University symposium on “Citizenship: Preparing our Undergraduates for Moral and Civic Leadership.” For years he has provided support and advice for the Fee Review Request Committee. He regularly spoke to student groups providing illumination and insight into IU policies and procedures. He prepared the IU report on the sweatshop issue. He was actively engaged in the community and with the Monroe Country Historical Museum. He also served as a guardian ad litem in Monroe County courts.

Damon loves IU, and it has shown in his daily work and his easy style with students, parents and colleagues. During his tenure here, Damon has been an inspirational leader and a tireless advocate for students. Perhaps Damon’s greatest contribution has been his strong commitment to helping students find their place in the university community and to engage so that they and the university are richer for it.

His leaving is a tremendous loss to our community and to his admiring and loving friends. Goodbye Damon, although we shed tears at your leaving, we wish you and your family great happiness in your new home. Penn State, you are so very lucky.

Sally Jones and Nita Levison
Indiana University Student Advocates Office