Class of 1944 Professor of Sociology Michele Dillon has agreed to serve as interim dean of the College of Liberal Arts (COLA) for the 2018-19 academic year, effective immediately. An award-winning scholar and teacher, Dillon brings a breadth of experience as a leader at the department level in COLA, in support of faculty across the university and in professional social science organizations.
"Nominated by her peers in COLA, I know that she will be an outstanding advocate for the liberal arts and humanities, which is so important for UNH," Wayne Jones, interim provost and vice president for academic affairs, wrote in his announcement of Dillon's selections interim dean, adding "I look forward to working with her and the college’s leadership team as we continue to strengthen and expand our focus on the liberal arts and their critical role in advancing UNH’s strategic priorities."
A member of the sociology department for 17 years, Dillon served as chair of the department for six years and as a faculty fellow in the office of the senior vice provost for engagement and faculty development, where she has been faculty chair of the university’s new faculty orientation program, chair of Pathway to Professorship and co-chair of the Writing Academy for faculty.
A national search for a permanent dean will begin early in the fall semester.
