Dan Tillapaugh

Dan Tillapaugh is a Professor and Chair of the Department of Counselor Education in the Graduate School of Education (GSOE) at California Lutheran University. He also serves as the Associate Dean for Equity, Outreach, and Faculty Development within the GSOE. His roles include academic leadership, curriculum development, and promoting institutional equity initiatives.

He holds a Ph.D. in Leadership Studies from the University of San Diego and an M.Ed. in Counseling and Personnel Services from the University of Maryland. His professional experience includes 10 years as a student affairs administrator in diverse institutional settings.

Dr. Tillapaugh’s research focuses on intersectionality in higher education, college men and masculinities, LGBTQ+ issues, sexual violence prevention, and leadership development. His work emphasizes critical analyses of gender dynamics, institutional policies, and student-centered pedagogies.

His publications (2024–2019) explore topics such as hegemonic masculinity, LGBTQ+ educational interventions, and trauma-informed practices. Recent trends in his work highlight systemic challenges, inclusive leadership frameworks, and the intersection of gender with student development.

• Awards: Emerging Scholar Designee by ACPA - College Student Educators International

In teaching, he focuses on counseling theory, college student development, and organizational change. He advocates for equitable policies and inclusive campus environments through his administrative roles and research.

His scholarly contributions address gaps in understanding marginalized student populations, particularly LGBTQ+ communities and male survivors of sexual violence, while advancing practical strategies for institutional reform.