Behind the Dean's Desk

What led you to this opportunity?

I came to the University of South Dakota in 2003 as an assistant professor of English and was quickly introduced to opportunities I had not anticipated, such as working with Honors students on interesting thesis projects and serving as the graduate program coordinator in the English Department. The other roles I have held followed from there, culminating in my current position. Throughout that journey, the foundation has remained the same: exploring meaningful questions, helping students succeed, and working alongside outstanding colleagues.

What do you hope every student experiences before they graduate?

The University of South Dakota does a truly outstanding job of providing students with meaningful co-curricular opportunities that complement what we do in the classroom. These opportunities include faculty-led international programs, laboratory work, research experiences, field schools, and many other activities. Our goal is to ensure that every student is able to participate in these experiences at least once—and ideally many times—during their studies.

What's your favorite place on campus and what makes it special to you?

As dean, I enjoy meeting with a large variety of people all the time, but I will admit my ideal spot would be all alone sitting on the third floor of I.D. Weeks Library, surrounded by books and notes.

Being a Coyote means ________. 

A closet full of red shirts.