The University of Minnesota’s new vice provost for student affairs and dean of students was announced Friday, following a five-month search.

Danita Brown, who has worked as Purdue University’s dean of students since March 2011, will assume her new post July 31, pending Board of Regents approval.

“I am confident in Danita’s leadership qualifications and experience to successfully lead the Office for Student Affairs and serve as a key member of my senior leadership group,” Karen Hanson, senior vice president for academic affairs and provost said in a statement.

In addition to her work at Purdue, Brown has served in a number of administrative and leadership positions at institutions including West Virginia University, Ohio University and Loyola University. She is also involved with a number of Greek and other student organizations.

Brown will replace Jerry Rinehart, who stepped down April 1 after seven years in the position and 35 years at the University.

Rinehart’s total salary in fiscal year 2012 was $173,960.