Two UT Martin senior leadership positions were filled following appointments by Chancellor Tom Rakes. Dr. Jerald Ogg (’76) was named vice chancellor for academic affairs, and Dr. Margaret Toston was named vice chancellor for student affairs. Both appointments were effective July 1 and followed national searches.

“Dr. Ogg brings his unique blend of professional, authentic manner in interacting with others,” said Rakes. “He has the academic and administrative experience along with a personal touch that I believe will be an asset on our leadership team.”

“This is a very special campus, and I have been humbled throughout this process by the support of so many faculty, staff and students,” said Ogg. “I look forward to working with Dr. Rakes and the academic leadership team to ensure we continue to provide the personal, rigorous education for which we have long been recognized.”

Ogg received bachelor’s degrees in political science and communications from UTMartin, the juris doctor from UT Knoxville College of Law, a master’s in journalism from Louisiana State University, and a doctorate in journalism from Southern Illinois University.

Ogg joined UT Martin in 1987 as an instructor/assistant professor in the department of communications. He has held several administrative positions since then, including his appointment as interim vice chancellor for academic affairs in 2007. Also at UT Martin, Ogg has served as a faculty member of the Governor’s School for the Humanities since its inception in 1991 and was named director in 2000.

Toston succeeds Steve Vantrease, who served as the interim vice chancellor during the past year. “Dr. Toston has broad leadership experience in student affairs, and I am pleased to have her join our senior leadership team,” said Rakes.

“I had many options for new opportunities, but it was UT Martin’s hospitality that won my affection,” said Toston. “Additionally, as I spoke with members of the community, scheduled and impromptu, everybody had one goal and that is student success. I felt as though I was among friends and family during the interview process, and that is very important to me. I am pleased that UT Martin invited me to become part of its leadership team. I have long awaited the opportunity to both return to my southern roots and to continue the work that I love to do.”

Toston received a bachelor’s degree in speech education at Grambling State University, a master’s of education in guidance/counseling at University of Louisiana at Monroe and a doctorate in higher education leadership at the University of Mississippi. She holds a certificate from Harvard University Institute for Management and Leadership in Education, and she has training from the University of Florida in targeted communications in enrollment management. She continues training in emergency management, safety and security.

Previously, Toston has served as dean of student life and development at Maryville University of Saint Louis. She also served in three positions at the University of North Carolina at Wilmington: coordinator for minority student retention/academic enrichment, academic adviser and director for disabled student services.