Search committees at the University continue to look for permanent replacements for the dean of the College and the dean of students as interim deans carry on the momentum in their respective offices. Provost Arthur "Tim" Garson said the committee searching for a College dean hopes to find a replacement by July 2008. Karen Ryan, former associate dean for the arts, humanities and social sciences, is currently serving a one-year appointment as interim College dean. "We were looking for someone who knows the College inside and out, and Karen Ryan fits the bill," Garson said. Ryan said she accepted the position because she wants to serve the College and encourage its development. "I don't think we can afford to tread water for a year," Ryan said. "We have a lot of momentum from [former College Dean] Ed Ayers." According to Garson, in the next year Ryan will work on enacting a hiring plan for new faculty that she developed with Ayers and Peter Brunjes, associate dean for the sciences. Ryan added that she will also establish new academic programs, work on the advising program, add and diversify faculty and continue fundraising for the South Lawn project and Capital Campaign. Ryan said she is uncertain about whether she is interested in becoming permanent dean of the College. "I'm committed to doing this for one year," Ryan said. "That's all I know for now." According to University spokesperson Carol Wood, the search for a permanent dean of students will begin in January with the goal of having a permanent dean in place for the fall 2008 semester. Allen Groves, formerly a development officer in the Office of Student Affairs, is currently serving as interim dean of students. A 1990 graduate of the Law School, Groves said he wants the Office of the Dean of Students to be accessible to students. "We are more than just a place you go if you are in trouble or a top leader," Groves said. "Our door is open." Rather than developing new programs that serve similar purposes, Groves plans to strengthen already existing programs and maximize resources. Through his experiences such as serving on the board of directors for Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity and acting as a Residence Life area coordinator, Groves said he feels connected to students. "I have spent a lot of time talking with professors, faculty and students to hear what they think are important issues," Groves said. Groves acknowledges, however, that his time as dean of students is a transition period. "I'm not going to feel constrained but I'm going to respect the time frame," Groves said. Groves, like Ryan, said he has not decided if he would like his temporary position to become permanent. "I'm focusing on the job I have to do right now," he said.
Read More
U.Va. loses over $60 million in federal research cuts
By Bertie Azqueta | YesterdayThe impacted grants include three from the NIH, seven from the NEH, one from the United States Agency for International Development and four from the State Department.
Department of Education reverses course, awards Federal Executive Institute to U.Va.
By Ford McCracken | 4 days agoThe ED had previously awarded the institute to Charlottesville City Schools.
Students reflect on the life and legacy of Pope Francis
By Bertie Azqueta | 4 days agoAt the University, students shared a range of perspectives on his legacy of reform, inclusivity and his impact on the global Catholic community.
