WFU’s Matt Imboden Named 2025 Outstanding Administrator in Graduate & Professional Student Services
Matt Imboden, Chief Student and Academic Services Officer at Wake Forest University School of Business, has been named the 2025 Outstanding Administrator in Graduate & Professional Student Services during an award presentation at the 2025 NASPA Annual Conference in New Orleans, LA.
The honor is awarded annually to a professional who has made significant and innovative contributions to the effective support of graduate and professional students in higher education. Imboden was selected for his outstanding leadership, commitment to student success, and transformative impact on graduate student services at Wake Forest University and beyond.
“Matt Imboden’s exceptional abilities, innovative initiatives, and committed service make him a deserving candidate for this award,” said Jackie Yun, Assistant Dean of Students and Executive Director of the Student Center at Harvard Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, who presented the award on behalf of NASPA’s Administrators in Graduate and Professional Student Services (AGAPSS) Knowledge Community. “His impact on students, faculty, and staff, as well as his contributions to the field of student affairs, align with the values and standards celebrated by NASPA. Furthermore, the mentoring and community building he has done for student affairs professionals make him an excellent recipient.”
Imboden’s nomination was supported by colleagues and peers across multiple institutions, highlighting his unparalleled leadership, strategic vision, and unwavering dedication to graduate and professional student success. As a key architect of student support services at Wake Forest University School of Business, Imboden has played a pivotal role in enhancing graduate learning experiences, student engagement, and holistic support structures for diverse student populations. His work in aligning contemporary business practices with student development strategies has led to innovative initiatives that foster academic and personal growth.
“Through his leadership and steadfast commitment to student success, Matt Imboden has enhanced the way we support and empower our graduate and professional students,” said Annette L. Ranft, Wake Forest School of Business Dean. “His work exemplifies the impact that thoughtful and strategic student engagement can have on building a thriving academic community. Under his leadership, the School has seen an increase in student satisfaction, as well as the development of innovative programs and initiatives that continue to enrich the student experience. We congratulate Matt on this well-deserved recognition and are grateful for his dedication to our students.”
During his tenure at Wake Forest, Imboden has been instrumental in establishing robust systems for student support, particularly during challenging times. Nominators highlighted how his ability to navigate institutional complexities, advocate for student needs, and drive strategic initiatives has positioned him as a trusted leader and mentor in the field of student affairs.
Reflecting on this recognition, Imboden shared, “I am very humbled and honored to be recognized in this way, especially because it is a recognition that comes from a community of peers and colleagues I respect so very much. I certainly share this honor with all the students, faculty, and staff I have had opportunities to work with and learn from. I have been very fortunate to benefit from the leadership and support of many excellent administrators over the years, and a recognition like this is certainly motivation to continue doing the very best I can for our students, institutions, and the higher education community.”
