Soman named interim dean of College of Education

Provost Maria Cimitile has named Sherril Soman interim dean of the College of Education, beginning August 1. Barry Kanpol, current dean of the college, is stepping down to serve as director of research on community engagement impact in the College of Community and Public Service.

Soman joined Grand Valley's Chemistry Department in 2000. She earned a doctorate in chemistry from Purdue University and is a chemistry educator by training, co-leading recertification of the chemistry major by the Michigan Department of Education.

"Dr. Soman has an evidenced commitment to shared governance and student success," said Cimitile. "She is a collaborative leader and I know she will be a true asset to the college and university in this interim role."

Soman has served in a number of leadership roles at the university, including associate vice president for Enrollment Development and university registrar, director of Financial Aid, interim assistant vice president for Academic Affairs, and associate dean in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

She has extensive expertise in curriculum development, assessment and strategic planning and currently serves on the university Assurance Argument Leadership Committee in preparation for a Higher Learning Commission reaccreditation visit in fall 2018.

Lynn Blue, vice president for Enrollment Development, appointed associate registrars Mary Brittain and Laura Przybytek to serve as interim registrars while a search for a new registrar is conducted.