Robert L. Palmer, former vice president for student affairs at California State University Fullerton, passed away on January 29. He was 80 years old.
Dr. Palmer spent over three decades in student affairs leadership positions. He joined the State University of New York at Buffalo in in 1975 as associate provost for student affairs. In 1991, his role was expanded and he was promoted to vice president of the division of student affairs.
Dr. Palmer left the University of Buffalo in 1997 to become vice president of student affairs for California State University Fullerton until his retirement in 2010. During his tenure, Dr. Palmer’s leadership led to the creation of numerous student support programs including the University Learning Center, various counseling and mental health resources, the Guardian Scholars Program, and the African American Resource Center. His accomplishments earned him the 2010 Scott Goodnight Award for Outstanding Performance as a Dean/Vice President from the NASPA-Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education, Region VI.
Dr. Palmer received his bachelor’s degree in education and master’s degree in college student personnel administration from Indiana University. He received his doctorate in higher education from the State University of New York at Buffalo.
