From the Dean
Greetings,
We’re in the midst of the holiday season, and although students have already departed for winter break, there is still much activity on campus as we prepare for their return in the spring.
I was pleased to recently announce the appointment of three associate deans — Dr. Lisa Gentile, associate professor of chemistry; Dr. Malcolm Hill, associate professor of biology; and Dr. Vincent Wei-cheng Wang, professor of political science. Lisa, Malcolm, and Vincent are recognized scholars with strong reputations among their peers, both within A&S and nationally. They will begin their appointments on Jan. 1, 2012. I know you will join me in congratulating them on their new roles.
The University has seen an increase of majors in new programs such as film studies and Philosophy, Politics, Economics, and Law (PPEL), both of which debuted in fall 2010. The PPEL program, a collaborative effort between the School of Arts & Sciences, Robins School of Business, Jepson School of Leadership Studies, and School of Law, exemplifies a liberal arts education and is a wonderful option for those students who might have issues identifying just one major.
I continue to work with A&S faculty and staff to identify ways to further align our efforts with the five principles of The Richmond Promise. In January and February, I will host a series of eight discussions to allow faculty and staff to share insights in regard to themes largely derived from their responses to a recent online survey. Topics will include the teacher-scholar model, transparency and faculty governance, and the future of our academic endeavor. These conversations will help shape our work and guide the School’s future strategy.
In closing I want to wish you a safe and happy holiday and a prosperous new year. I hope that you take some time away from the hustle and bustle to enjoy all that the season has to offer.
Sincerely,
Kathleen Roberts Skerrett
Dean, School of Arts & Sciences
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