Ryan ChartrandOn behalf of the CLA, I am happy to report that the renovation of the CLA dean’s office is complete and the dean’s office staff is once more in 47-31. Several new spaces were created: an office for our special assistant to the dean for Student Success, Penny Bennett offices and workspace for our college advancement team, headed by Eileen Joseph and more. The net effect is a better organized and connected dean’s office. Please feel free to come by to check out our new digs!
Moreover, the CLA has a larger footprint on campus than suggested by your article. Although we don’t have one main building, save the faculty offices in 47, many of our programs do have dedicated space. Art and design is a major presence in Dexter; graphic communication and journalism are housed in the Graphic Arts building; child development has its preschool lab in Building 38; and the H.P. Davidson Music building is on the list for a major renovation. This will have a substantial, positive impact on music and theatre and dance, the students they serve, and the entire university.
The College of Liberal Arts’ sign in front of Building 47 was an important step in creating a college-wide presence. The renovation of the H.P. Davidson Music Building will further that. The CLA does have unaddressed space needs, which Dean Halisky continues to voice. We are confident that the university has the best interests of our college and our students in mind as it goes forward with its building plans.
Debra Valencia-Laver
Associate dean for the College of Liberal Arts