A national search for a permanent dean of the School of Professions is currently underway. Dr. Kevin
Mulcahy, Chair of Hospitality and Tourism and Interim Dean for more than three years, has resigned
from the position.
Dr. James Mayrose, Chair of Engineering Technology and chair of the search committee said Mulcahy
thought it was important that the School have a permanent dean going forward.
Associate Dean Rita Zientek took over as officer in charge for the School of Professions on Jan. 19 and
has full oversight and responsibility for all related matters and business until a new dean is appointed.
“We look forward to working with our new dean to build upon the accomplishments of the students,
staff and faculty in fostering a strong and productive school by attracting a diverse and socially
committed faculty and student body, strengthening and supporting scholarship, expanding external
funding and private support, and providing strategic thinking and direction as we prepare practitioners
and scholars who make a significant impact on our community and the world,” Zientek said.
The search committee will be looking for candidates with a doctorate in one of the disciplines taught
in the School of Professions, which includes hospitality and tourism, higher education administration,
criminal justice, social work and fashion and textile technology.
The candidates should also have experience in fiscal planning, allocation and oversight, a minimum
of three years of administrative experience as a department chair equivalent or higher, a record of
academic achievement sufficient for appointment to the rank of full professor, evidence of fostering
diversity among faculty, students and staff, an understanding of the issues affecting diverse populations
and a record of developing innovative partnerships between academic and local professional and social
communities, Mayrose said.
All candidates that meet the qualifications for the position of Dean of the School of the Professions both
internal and external to Buffalo State will be interviewed, Mayrose said.
The School of the Professions is looking to fill the position by July 2013.
Some responsibilities the new dean will take on are leading the school’s faculty and staff, managing its
fiscal strategies and collaborating with pertinent stakeholders to advance the school’s mission.
“The School of The Professions is searching for a person of vision and leadership who promotes strong
working relationships and a commitment to excellence in teaching, research, creative activity and
service within a diverse learning environment,” Zientek said.
Mayrose stated that with the new technology building almost completed, the School of Professions will
attract more students to Buffalo State.
“The combination of a new building, new state-of-the-art equipment and an active marketing plan will
surely attract new students to Buffalo State and the School of the Professions,” he said.
Sashana Campbell can be reached by email at campbell.record@live.com.