Julie A. Thornton has been named director of student activities, said Jill E. Carnaghi, Ph.D., director of campus life and assistant vice chancellor for students. Thornton began her new position in July.
“I am thrilled to be a part of the Washington University community,” Thornton said. “Although my role here as student activities director is very different from my previous positions, I am still able to work directly with students as an advocate, partner and adviser.
“This involvement with students, coupled with the leadership of Jill Carnaghi, make this a wonderful position for me. I look forward to growing in this position and assisting in the development of students’ lives and student leadership at the University.”
Thornton earned a bachelor’s degree in speech communication from St. Olaf College and a master’s degree in educational administration from Illinois State University. She brings with her 12 years of higher-education experience in student development, judicial affairs, residence life, admissions and athletics.
Most recently, Thornton served as dean of students at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota. She also was assistant dean of students and director of residential life at Illinois Wesleyan University.
Thornton’s husband, Paul, is a track and field coach at the University. The couple has two children — 2-year-old Zach and 6-year-old Marissa.