Letter from Gary Bertoline, the next dean

Colleagues,

Over the last few weeks I have been working closely with Dean Dennis Depew and others on the administrative staff so that we will have a smooth transition in the Dean's Office. I have also been meeting one-on-one with the associate deans, department heads and staff. The transition is going very well and I would like to update you on a few important matters that have occurred over the last few weeks.

I have appointed Mitch Springer as the interim department head of Technology Leadership & Innovation effective immediately to handle the day-to-day operations and ending on August 1 when the new department head begins his term. (See story on two new department heads).

Jamie Mohler has been appointed as interim associate dean for graduate programs effectively immediately. We will commence an internal search for a permanent appointment early this fall.

When I interviewed for the position I created what I called "The Plan" for the college where I shared my thoughts and ideas on moving us from Good to Great. As I begin my term as your dean on July 1, I would like to hear from all faculty and staff regarding any ideas you might have for improvement, ideas that would move us from Good to Great, concerns you believe I should be aware of as your dean and areas for opportunity. I am especially interested in how you think we can improve as related to your specific role in the college.

Faculty and staff in our college have a wealth of experience and ideas, and I would like you to share your thoughts with me. I would prefer to meet one-on-one with anyone wanting to talk, but that would be really difficult given the number of faculty and staff across the state. By giving me your thoughts in writing, we can begin a dialogue on how best to move the college from Good to Great. I know that most of you are on summer break so you can send me your thoughts anytime over the next two months.

I am both humbled and very excited to lead the College of Technology and I value all your input. I believe we are at a "tipping point" in our college to move from Good to Great if we work together and make good strategic decisions that will move us forward. Have a good summer and I will do my best to communicate to all of you on a regular basis on important information.

Best regards,

Gary