Joseph Defraine Greenwell Begins as Associate Vice President for Student Life and Chief Student Affairs Officer

With more than 25 years of expertise at private and public higher education institutions across the country, Joseph Defraine Greenwell began working as associate vice president for student life and chief student affairs officer on August 1.

As a member of the Student Affairs senior leadership group, Greenwell will have direct responsibility for a comprehensive student experience portfolio that includes student success initiatives, student health and wellness, athletics and recreation, co-curricular activities and events, performing and visual arts, the registrar's office, the CARE team, fellowships and study abroad, orientation, and residential experience. Greenwell will also focus on elevating and enhancing the overall student experience for Caltech's undergraduate and graduate student communities.

"I'm genuinely thrilled to join the Caltech community," says Greenwell. "This is a campus known not only for its intellectual rigor and innovation but also for its close-knit, passionate community. I'm eager to listen, learn, and build strong relationships across the Institute—and to work collaboratively to continue enhancing the student experience in meaningful ways."

Prior to Caltech, Greenwell served as senior vice president for student affairs in university life at Columbia University, where he collaborated with colleagues, students, and faculty from across the university's schools and central student services to foster student development and success throughout their academic journey.

Kevin Gilmartin, vice president of student affairs, said in an announcement of Greenwell's new role, "Joseph has demonstrated a student-oriented approach embedded in a collaborative, insightful, and informed leadership style that has effectively moved student and staff communities forward towards enhanced frameworks for student success."

With an academic background in music, Greenwell brings an interesting perspective on student affairs leadership.

"I often describe my leadership style through a musical analogy," Greenwell says. "I see my role a bit like that of an orchestra conductor. I may bring vision and coordination, but the true richness comes from the many voices, talents, and perspectives in the room. A conductor doesn't make music alone; they create the conditions for everyone to contribute their best. In the same way, I strive to build teams where every member feels heard and valued, and where we collaborate across roles and departments to support students holistically."