Rice has appointed Beth Leaver as assistant vice president for housing, dining and hospitality following a national search.
Leaver has served in the role on an interim basis for the past year, overseeing a period of growth, operational expansion and organizational transition within the division. During that time, she helped expand campus dining options, retail services and community meal plans.
Rick Mello, associate vice president for campus services and sustainability, praised Leaver’s leadership and service to the university community.
“Beth’s dedication to Rice and her passion for serving students, staff and faculty have made a meaningful impact across the university, and I am confident she will continue to lead the organization with vision, integrity and innovation,” Mello said.
In her new role, Leaver will continue leading the university’s housing, dining and hospitality operations, including undergraduate and graduate housing, residential and retail dining, faculty club operations, campus retail services and hospitality programs. She also will remain a member of the Campus Services & Sustainability leadership team.
“Rice has been my professional home for many years, and I am grateful for the opportunity to continue serving the Rice community in this role,” Leaver said. “Housing, dining and hospitality are central to the student experience, and I am excited to build on the strong foundation we have created while continuing to evolve and grow alongside the university.”
Leaver, who has worked at the university for more than 17 years, said hospitality is rooted in fostering connection and support across campus.
“Hospitality, to me, is about creating spaces where people feel welcomed, supported and connected,” she said. “I am proud of the work our team has done and look forward to continuing to elevate the experience for our students, faculty and staff.”