Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions (RMU) has appointed K. Wade Oliver, EdD, as director of the Office of Student Engagement and Success, effective September 8, 2026
Dr. Oliver brings more than 30 years of experience in higher education leadership and student success, with a career built on helping colleges and universities create supportive, student-centered environments.
As a first-generation college graduate, Dr. Oliver brings a personal understanding of the transformative power of higher education. Throughout his career, he has emphasized the importance of relationships and intentional support, helping students develop the confidence and skills they need to succeed.
“I’m excited to begin this role at RMU because it brings together so much of what I’ve cared about throughout my career in support of student success,” Dr. Oliver said. “I’m looking forward to getting to know our students, faculty, and staff and being part of a community that cares so deeply about helping students feel connected, supported, and confident in their ability to succeed.”
Dr. Oliver spent the past 16 years at Utah Valley University (UVU), most recently serving as Senior Director of Adult Learner Support Initiatives, after previously serving as Director of Student Advising and Director of Advising Training and Development. His contributions at UVU were recognized with the 2015 Vice-Presidential Award of Excellence in Student Affairs and the 2025 Board of Trustees Award of Excellence.
Prior to UVU, Dr. Oliver served as Director of Academic Advising and Career Development at Christopher Newport University, a highly selective liberal arts and sciences university in Virginia. Earlier in his career, he was Assistant Director of Advising and Transition Services at Utah State University and managed the New Student Orientation program and the nationally recognized Answer Center at Salt Lake Community College.
Dr. Oliver is also an experienced educator, having taught leadership, public speaking, and student success courses for more than two decades. He holds an EdD in Higher Education Administration from Northeastern University, where his research focused on student-centeredness in academic leadership. He also earned an MS in Instructional Technology and Learning Sciences from Utah State University, a BS in Sociology from the University of Utah, and an AS in Speech Communication from Salt Lake Community College.
The Office of Student Engagement and Success supports RMU students throughout their academic journey, helping develop the next generation of healthcare leaders.
