University leaders earn new titles 

After recent interim service, four leaders at Pittsburg State University have been permanently confirmed in their roles. 

“I’m thrilled for this team, and each individual to be confirmed in their respective positions,” said Vice President of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management Karl Stumo. “Their talents and commitment to PSU students and staff is a gift to the campus community as a whole.”  

Jon Bartlow 

Jon Bartlow (Communication ‘99, ‘03) is now the associate vice president and dean of students, overseeing Campus Activities, Greek Life, Student Government, Student Wellness Programming and Counseling, Campus Food Services, Barnes and Noble Gorilla Bookstore, University Housing, the Bicknell Family Center for the Arts, and the Overman Student Center. 

Prior to being named interim associate vice president and dean of students this summer, Bartlow served as director of the Alumni and Constituent Relations Office and executive director of the Alumni Association. He earned a Ph.D. in higher education administration from Saint Louis University in 2019.  

Maria Thompson 

Maria Thompson is now the director of University Housing, overseeing operations and staffing at the university’s residence halls and Residence Life programming.  

Prior to being named interim director this summer, Thompson’s experience at Pitt State included positions in University Advancement and the Office of Inclusion & Belonging, and as the assistant director for Residence Life. She has served in similar positions at other universities, including Youngstown State, the University of Arkansas, Missouri State University, and Wichita State University.  

Jamie Rink 

Jamie Rink (Justice Studies ‘01, ‘05) is now the director of Student Financial Assistance, overseeing staffing and the university’s scholarships, loans, and other financial aid programs. 

Previous positions at Pitt State include serving as the loan coordinator in Financial Aid, Scholarship Coordinator, and then Interim Director. Prior to joining the university staff, she worked for the Kansas Department of Revenue as a field agent and as a probation officer for Montgomery County Community Corrections. 

Shawna Witherspoon 

Shawna Witherspoon (Art ‘19) is now the director of the Bicknell Family Center for the Arts, overseeing operations, staff, and programming at the venue that includes concerts, plays, speakers, and special events.  

Prior to being named interim director this summer, Witherspoon served as client services coordinator and facilitated special events at the Bicknell Center. In 2018, she joined the center’s staff as a gallery assistant, with a focus on curating exhibits, while working on her Art degree.