The Daily Bulletin Archive

I’m pleased to announce the following appointments:

Dean Reappointment, School of Arts and Humanities
I am delighted to announce the reappointment of Benjamin C. Christy as dean of the School of Arts and Humanities. A comprehensive performance review was conducted in accordance with school bylaws. The Dean’s Performance Review Committee conducted the review employing survey methodology, meetings with department chairs, open sessions, and discussion with Dean Christy. Areas of special interest addressed by the committee included the dean’s accomplishments in maintaining high academic standards, fundraising, and equitable distribution of resources. Following the yearlong review, Dr. Christy was recommended to receive a three-year reappointment as dean.

Appreciation is extended to Gerald M. Nosich, professor of philosophy and humanities, for chairing the review committee. Additional members of the committee contributed to the process and are thanked for their efforts. Members were Harriet Blitzer, professor of fine arts; Heidi E. Dietz Faletti, associate professor of English; Joy A. Guarino, assistant professor of theater; James F. Hamm, professor of art conservation; Joseph R. Piccillo, professor of art education; William E. Raffel, associate professor of communication; Crystal H. Reinoso, professor of music; Richard J. Ross, associate professor of design; Jorg E. Schnier, associate professor of interior design; and Mark K. Warford, associate professor of modern and classical languages.

Dean Reappointment, School of Natural and Social Sciences
I am delighted to announce the reappointment of Mark W. Severson as dean of the School of Natural and Social Sciences. A Dean’s Performance Review Committee was elected in accordance with school bylaws. The committee completed the review employing surveys, meetings with department chairs and dean’s office personnel, open hearings for faculty and professional staff, and an interview with Dean Severson. Areas of emphasis for the performance review of Dean Severson included administrative effectiveness, personal qualities, and effectiveness of academic leadership. Dr. Severson was recommended for a three-year reappointment as dean.

Appreciation is extended to M. Stephen Pendleton, associate professor of political science, for chairing the review committee. Other committee members were Theodore F. Byrley, department chair and associate professor of economics and finance; William S. Durfee, associate professor of chemistry; Lydia M. Fish, professor of anthropology; and Christopher M. Pennuto, professor of biology. My thanks to all for their individual contributions to the process.

Interim Dean Appointments: Academic Year 2011–2012
I am pleased to announce that Paul G. Theobald, School of Education, and Kevin F. Mulcahy, School of the Professions, have consented to continue as interim deans for the 2011–2012 academic year. I am confident that their continued leadership will advance school initiatives and support the many activities of departments, centers, faculty, and staff.

Following spring 2011 meetings with department chairs in each school, planning is under way to conduct searches for permanent dean appointments to be effective July 2012.