By SHANNON O. WELLS
In January, the new year ushered in a new school and position for Marlin Nabors, who after four years as associate vice president and dean of students at Endicott College in Massachusetts started at Pitt as associate vice provost and dean of students.
Although he was aware of the University’s history, stature and “incredible scholars,” Nabors admits he wasn’t fully prepared for the level of student engagement and commitment he’s encountered thus far.
“I knew Pitt had a strong academic reputation with incredible scholars, but I didn’t expect to have so many high-level conversations with students about their innovative research and projects,” Nabors says. “The students here are sharp, curious and constantly learning — and it shows.”
He’s also discovering that the passion of Pitt students doesn’t end at the edges of campus.
“Every time I’m talking with students, I’m reminded how impressive this community is and how proud I am to be part of it. Most important, Pitt students are kind and community-minded, always interested in supporting each other and in being a good neighbor in Pittsburgh,” he says.
In his new role, Nabors, who brings 20 years of experience in higher education, oversees the Community and Inclusion, Wellness and Student Engagement, and Professional Development teams.
A statement from the Office of the Provost says he’s charged with advancing the mission and vision of a division focused on “fostering inclusive excellence” and supporting student success by “cultivating a sense of belonging, engagement, well-being and learning.”
Nabors’ leadership is considered crucial in furthering a campus climate that “supports the holistic development of students, ensuring they have the resources and support to thrive both academically and personally,” the statement says.
A first-generation college graduate, Nabors earned a bachelor of science degree in journalism and sociology from Central Michigan University. Furthering a commitment to social justice and equitable educational opportunities for students, he went on to earn a master’s degree from Syracuse University in cultural foundations of education.
Nabors has held a wide range of roles in his career in student affairs and provided oversight to a range of traditional student services, including student engagement, community service, health and counseling services, community standards, and residence life. He’s also worked in student support areas such as international student services, disability services, and a women’s center.
While he’s not exactly easing into the summer months, Nabors acknowledges that his and his colleagues’ work already has set several wheels in motion. Many key initiatives are “well underway and on track for a strong launch this fall.”
“We’ve made meaningful progress in building partnerships and collaborations across University departments, which will enhance the depth and breadth of services and experiences we offer,” he says. “Our work remains rooted in learning outcomes and intentionality, as we continue to expand upon the solid groundwork already in place.”
Creating connections
Furthering established departmental goals, Nabors says he’s focused on “meeting students where they are, with particular attention to expanding support and services for graduate and virtual-student populations. We are excited to carry this momentum into the upcoming academic year.”
For Nabors, an ongoing challenge at Pitt — or any large learning institution — is “creating a cohesive sense of identity and belonging for a diverse group of new students.”
“Each incoming class brings its own unique strengths, needs and perspectives, and it’s essential that we take the time to truly get to know them,” he says. “Our role is to provide meaningful opportunities and services that help students explore who they are in this environment and how they want to engage with the Pitt community.”
Noting Pitt’s core mission of facilitating student development, Nabors says he recognizes this is a critical time of personal growth and self-discovery and will work to “meet students where they are, support them through that journey, and help them build a sense of inclusion and purpose.”
He praises those he’s working with for their proactive engagement in helping students to fulfill their potential.
“We are fortunate to have dedicated staff who are deeply committed to working with students — encouraging them to get involved, use their voices and take ownership of their experience,” Nabors says. “While the work is ongoing, we believe these challenges can be addressed through intentional, student-centered practices that foster connection and community.”
He also acknowledges challenges facing higher education and students, including recent White House executive orders eliminating federal research funding grants and scrutiny of international students’ immigration and visa status. In short, navigating the prevailing landscape requires diligence and fortitude.
“This moment encourages reflection, dialogue and renewed engagement with the public about the essential value of higher education in a democratic society and the vital role it plays in preparing civically engaged and informed leaders for the future,” he says.
In his interactions with students, Nabors hears their need for strong support systems loud and clear.
“Especially when it comes to navigating personal well-being, academic pressures and broader societal concerns,” he says. “We are committed to actively listening to their voices and ensuring they feel seen and heard.
“In the current climate — particularly with recent shifts at the federal level — we recognize the importance of being intentional in our approach. This means not only connecting students to the right resources, but also anticipating emerging needs and adapting our strategies to provide responsive, student-centered support.”
Expertise and energy
Carla Panzella, vice provost for student affairs, says Nabors, as a seasoned senior student affairs leader, “brings a deep understanding of student development that is already helping us identify areas of growth and opportunity.
His presence adds not only expertise but also a sense of energy and approachability. He makes even the hard work enjoyable,” she says. “Most importantly, Marlin brings a genuine care for students and their development, which aligns perfectly with our mission and enhances our collective efforts to support the Pitt community.”
Noting that settling into both Pitt and Pittsburgh has “been a lot of fun so far,” Nabors also is “really looking forward” to the 2025-26 academic year, welcoming his first full class of students and “getting to know more of our returning students” this year.
“In the year ahead, I’m hoping to explore more corners of the city — especially places to take my corgi, Mia — and to attend more student research presentations and athletic events,” he says. “Building stronger connections with students, both in and out of the classroom, will be a big focus for me in 2025–26.”
Shannon O. Wells is a writer for the University Times. Reach him at shannonw@pitt.edu.
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