This fall, Geneseo welcomes new deans Polly Radosh, dean of the college, Michael Schinski, dean of the School of Business and Jonathan Gonder, dean of the School of the Arts.
Returning to her undergraduate alma mater, Polly Radosh assumes her position, which involves overseeing academic advising, scheduling, students with disabilities and general curriculum, after a 24-year tenure at Western Illinois University. The former director of the women's studies program and Chair of the Department of Women's Studies, Radosh brings with her a strong commitment to multiculturalism and women's studies.
Although she never envisioned herself as a dean, Radosh said she, "always kept progressing in the world of academia."
"I was a teacher for 26 years, so this seemed to be the right advancement," she said. From experience, she advised students to "speak with their advisors, and to stay on track with classes."
The vacated position of dean of the school of business is filled by one of its own professors, Michael Schinski, as interim dean while a national search is conducted for a permanent replacement. Schinski has served as an associate professor of finance in the School of Business for 16 years, and is excited to take on a more active role in what he calls the "energizing environment" of Geneseo.
"I am impressed by the quality of the students, and the combination of the institutional focus on teaching, not just research, bright kids and a nice area," he said.
Dean Schinski has an extensive background in finance. He earned his bachelor's and master's degrees from the University of Toledo, and his doctorate of finance from the University of Kentucky.
Although he will not be in the classroom as much - he will teach only one section of Management 511 this semester - he says he will be challenged by the administrative aspect of being a dean. "The School is moving in the right direction, and I want to keep the momentum going."
Jonathan Gonder joins the faculty as the inaugural dean of the school of the arts. Formerly the associate vice president for academic affairs at the University of Pittsburgh, Gonder came to Geneseo because he saw the position as "the perfect job." He said he respects the SUNY system and thinks highly of the arts in the Rochester area.
A pianist himself, Gonder described his role as, "cheerleader... setting the tone and atmosphere for the school of the arts."
He continued to say that the job offers him the chance to build up the arts programs at Geneseo. He aims to increase the profile of the school in terms of renown, and ensure first-rate quality performances.