My academic and administrative philosophy is straightforwardly student and faculty-centered, finds its basis in concepts of social justice and recognizes diversity as a virtue. Student learning must be the primary focus of an institution of higher learning. All other activities, be they on the part of faculty or administrators, must serve to attain the end of high quality, and continually improved, student learning. The primary and proper role of an academic administrator is to facilitate the teaching and learning process by providing the necessary logistical, technological and moral support to students and faculty in order that their potential as learners, teachers, scholars and members of a free society can be most fully realized. This means a commitment to faculty governance and curricular ownership, open and honest dialogue in the budget process and an administrative “open door policy” that privileges student and faculty voices and stresses that the function of administration is to serve students, faculty, the University, and the community.

Why did I choose to become a dean? The simple fact is that I love higher education, I love its goals and its mission. It is my life's work, and I take it very seriously...but I also enjoy it with all my heart. I wake up every morning with the knowledge that I will be engaged with eager and energetic students and some of the most creative and intellectually brilliant faculty to be found anywhere. What a great life!

I hope that you will feel free to stop by and visit our offices, or the offices of the College’s various academic departments and programs, at any time. Thank you for visiting our web page!

Best regards,

Dr. William J. McKinney, Dean