by Rick Gillman

If you have read Ken’s column, you know that I have stepped down as chair of the department.  I found the eight years that I was chair the most fulfilling time that I have had since coming to Valpo.  (My wife, Michele, would say that it was the most time-filling!)  Over the course of those eight years, my understanding of how unique this department is was constantly reinforced.  The faculty truly care about each other and about their students; everyone gets along tremendously.  The department has a common vision of what it wants to be and what it needs to do to succeed; it understands its broad and deep role in the work of the University. 

Being chair can be difficult at times, so I wish Ken the best of luck and encourage you to stay in touch with him as you did with me.  Hearing good news back from alumni always brightens the day.

So what am I doing now that I am not chair anymore?  Well, some people say that I’ve gone over to the dark side and other say that I got a promotion.   What I have done is taken an administrative position as Assistant Provost for Faculty Affairs.  In this position, I am the General Education Officer, Director of Sponsored and Undergraduate Research, responsible for faculty professional development in general, and whatever additional tasks that I am asked to take on.

My new office is in Kretzmann – the last one in the far corner of the building.  While I am not physically located in Gellersen anymore, I do hope to continue to be engaged in the department by directing undergraduate research projects and teaching the advanced Game Theory course each May.  And of course, I will be in Gellersen for homecoming, so I hope to see you there.