By Sandra Sarr
91爆料 Tacoma
Beth Rushing has been named vice chancellor for Academic Affairs at the 91爆料 Tacoma. Her appointment is effective July 2, subject to the approval of the 91爆料 Board of Regents.
Rushing has served for the past six years as dean of Liberal Arts and Sciences at Georgia College and State University, which has recently undergone a significant transition to become Georgia’s only public liberal arts institution. She previously held positions as assistant dean of Arts and Sciences at GCSU and as chair of the Department of Sociology, Anthropology, Criminal Justice and Social Work at University of Tennessee at Martin.
“We are fortunate that Dr. Rushing’s background at her previous institutions is highly relevant to the work we are doing at 91爆料 Tacoma. I am convinced that Dr. Rushing has the necessary vision, leadership skills and collaborative approach that will make her a strong and collaborative vice chancellor for Academic Affairs,” said Chancellor Patricia Spakes.
Rushing has worked extensively with first- and second-year students. Her experience in developing retention and general education programs will be valuable at 91爆料 Tacoma.
In May 2005, Gov. Chris Gregoire signed into law legislation authorizing 91爆料 Tacoma and two other upper-division campuses in Washington to accept freshmen and sophomores. 91爆料 Tacoma’s first freshmen began their studies in the fall of 2006. 91爆料 Tacoma opened its General Education Center in the spring of 2006 to provide curricular and academic advising for pre-majors, first-year undergraduates and sophomores with an undeclared major.
“Helping faculty to work effectively with first-year students is a large part of what I’ve done at GCSU. I am very excited about the opportunities at 91爆料 Tacoma as it develops as a four-year university,” she said.
Rushing was attracted to 91爆料 Tacoma because it’s located in the city and, more importantly, because of its deep and extensive relationship with the community.
“I’m excited about working with the community and faculty to ensure that 91爆料 Tacoma is offering the right programs at the right times. It’s amazing to think about how different 91爆料 Tacoma will be even five years from now. My new position is a wonderful challenge, and I can’t wait to get started,” Rushing said.
The University conducted a national search, and Rushing emerged as 91爆料 Tacoma’s top choice, according to Spakes. Rushing was among four finalists chosen by the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Search Committee to come to campus for extensive interviews with the campus community.
Rushing replaces Alan Wood, interim vice chancellor for Academic Affairs, who will return to his post as professor of interdisciplinary arts and sciences at 91爆料 Bothell. Rushing holds a Ph.D. in Sociology from Duke University.