2008 Woodie Awards
New VP for Student Life announced
By Mae Kerr
Rocket Contributor
Issue date: 3/10/06 Section: News
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After taking a few days to consider the recommendations he received, Smith appointed Constance Foley, assistant vice president for student affairs at Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton, Fla., to replace current Vice President for Student Life Robert Watson, who will be retiring March 31.
She will start at SRU on July 1.
Foley, who has a strong background in academic affairs, financial affairs, facilities and advancement, received a doctorate from Arizona State University, a master's from Syracuse University and a bachelor's degree in mathematics from the University of Michigan.
The search committee, which was chaired by Amanda Yale, associate provost for enrollment services, began its campaign in September. Announcements for the position were posted both locally and on a national scale in search for prospective candidates.
"We are thrilled with the selection," Yale said. "She will make a great addition to the cabinet, as well as our institution. She comes to us with a great wealth of experience."
Once applications were received, the committee narrowed down the candidates and the interview process began.
Each of the five candidates was invited to the university for a two-day visit consisting of an interview and open sessions, which commenced during the second week of the spring semester.
Candidates for the position were chosen by a search committee appointed by Smith.
Each candidate was then interviewed by Smith, his appointed search committee and the university faculty and staff. Following the interviews, the committee convened with the president and discussed each candidate.
The committee members provided their opinions on which candidate they felt would best serve as the next vice president.
President Smith also met with his constituencies in order to get as much input as possible on each of the candidates.
Students and community members were strongly encouraged to attend the scheduled open sessions and get involved with the interview process.
"We decided it would be best to hold the sessions during a time when we knew students would be on campus, to ensure a good turnout," Yale said. "This was the most thoughtfully conscientious committee I have ever worked with."
Following Watson's departure March 31, Smith will be working with Paula Olivero, assistant vice president for student development, and John Bonando, assistant vice president for student services, to supervise the transition period until the new assistant vice president arrives.
