Segrave named dean of special programs

Jeffrey Segrave, previously interim dean of special programs, has accepted the invitation of Vice President for Academic Affairs Susan Kress to serve as dean of special programs, effective immediately.

In an all-college email announcement, Kress explained, ?I would normally run a national search for a position of this importance, but there are many compelling reasons to ask Jeff to continue in this position. He has been doing this job for two full years now, is engaged in a variety of important projects, and has earned the trust and confidence of those with whom he works. Preserving the continuity of his leadership is a key priority at this time both for the staff and the ongoing initiatives in Special Programs.?

She continued, ?I have consulted broadly about this appointment in the College and beyond?speaking particularly with those directors who report to Jeff (and asking them in turn to consult with the staff of Special Programs more generally), with Jeff?s peers in the administration, and with the members of the Committee on Appointments, Promotions, and Tenure as well. The consensus is loud and strong that Jeff should be persuaded to continue?and I am very grateful that he has agreed to do so.

?Jeff came to Skidmore in 1978 and is thus completing his 30th year of service to the College. His experiences here have been both broad and deep?and he has served the College in multiple roles: as faculty member, women?s tennis coach, chair of his department, and Director of Athletics. As professor, he has taught in Liberal Studies I and II, team-taught (with Professor Phil Boshoff from the English Department) a Scribner Seminar, and offered courses in the history, sociology, and philosophy of sports. As scholar, he is an internationally known and widely published expert on the Olympic Games. As citizen of the community, he has served on significant administrative search committees (such as those for the current president and registrar), on the Commission on the Nineties Task Force, and on a multitude of other committees (including the Faculty Development Committee, the Committee on Academic Freedom and Rights, Admissions, the Committee on Academic Standing, the University Without Walls Committee, and the Committee on Appointments, Promotion, and Tenure). In 2005, in recognition of his many accomplishments and his distinguished career at Skidmore, he was appointed to the David H. Porter Chair.

?In the two years he has served as interim dean, he has proved to be a stabilizing and steady presence even as the area of Special Programs has taken up some very difficult issues. In all his dealings, Jeff is thoughtful, open-minded, collaborative, measured, and balanced; he is a wonderful listener and a very hard worker. He brings good energy, good cheer, and a sterling integrity to everything he does. Deeply dedicated to Skidmore, he has already demonstrated his profound commitment to Special Programs; I know he is ready and eager at this time to take Special Programs forward.?