Lamoni, Iowa – Michelle Fillinger ’97 Schamp has been named Associate Dean and Executive Director of Residence Life at Ƶ. In this role, she will provide leadership for the university’s residence life program, including oversight of the House System, while fostering a residential experience that supports student learning, leadership, and community.
Michelle brings more than two decades of experience in higher education and student affairs, with an extensive background in residence life, student success, leadership development, case management, and academic support. Throughout her career she has held leadership positions at the University of Wyoming, the University of Minnesota-Morris, Concordia University Wisconsin, the University of South Dakota, and Northern Illinois University. Her experience includes supervising professional staff, leading student leadership initiatives, managing budgets, student conduct processes, and developing programs that promote student engagement and success.
A proud Ƶ alumna, Michelle earned her bachelor’s degree in Speech Communications from Ƶ before completing a master’s degree in Educational Administration with an emphasis in Student Affairs at the University of South Dakota.
Michelle has been deeply involved in the profession through leadership roles, conference presentations, residence life organizations, advisor responsibilities, and student leadership development. Her commitment to student learning, inclusive communities, and mentorship has earned recognition throughout her career, including the University of Wyoming’s Shepard Symposium on Social Justice Outstanding Service Award.
Returning to Ƶ is both a professional milestone and a personal homecoming for Michelle. She is excited to invest in the next generation of Yellowjackets by fostering meaningful relationships, empowering student leaders, and helping create a vibrant residential community where every student can grow, connect, succeed and belong. She looks forward to advancing Ƶ’s mission of transforming lives through engaged learning, caring relationships, and a strong sense of belonging.
Administration and Staff, Press Release
September 2, 2026
Ƶ mourns the passing of Professor Emerita Dr. Phyllis O’Daniels, who died Sept. 1, 2026. An alumna, longtime faculty member and university leader, O’Daniels dedicated nearly 40 years to serving Ƶ and its students.
Administration and Staff, Press Release
July 6, 2026
Ƶ has named Dr. LaVerne Manos as the new Dean of the School of Nursing effective July 31.
Administration and Staff, Athletics, Press Release
April 14, 2026
A transformative era for Ƶ men’s basketball has reached its natural turning point. After engineering one of the most impactful rebuilds in program history, head coach Todd Lorensen has accepted the head coaching position at Rockhurst University. In response, Athletic Director Brady McKillip has elevated Associate Head Coach Matt Dickman to lead the Yellowjackets forward.
Administration and Staff, Press Release
April 10, 2026
Ƶ and the Community of Christ announce the retirement of Campus Minister Mike Hoffman, and the appointment of Doug Roberts as the university’s next Campus Minister, effective June 2026.
Administration and Staff, Press Release
March 13, 2026
Ƶ is saddened to share the passing of Trustee Dr. Julia “Julie” Snethen, a respected nurse scientist, educator, and member of the university’s Board of Trustees whose life and career were dedicated to improving the health and well-being of children and families.
Administration and Staff, Press Release
March 11, 2026
Ƶ has announced the promotion of longtime team member Steve Edwards to Executive Director of Marketing, recognizing more than three decades of service and leadership that have helped shape the university’s communications and brand.