In honor of the University’s 125th anniversary, we share in-depth perspectives from the new deans of Simmons’ School of Library and Information Science; School of Sciences and Health Professions; Gwen Ifill School of Media, Humanities, and Social Sciences; School of Social Work; School of Management; and School of Nursing.
What do you enjoy most about Simmons?
Dr. Sanda Erdelez, Dean of the School of Library and Information Science (SLIS): I enjoy the close-knit and collaborative nature of the Simmons community, where relationships are easily formed and ideas flow freely across disciplines. The campus itself is a welcoming, accessible space that fosters engagement and a sense of belonging.
Dr. Paul Geisler, Dean of the School of Sciences and Health Professions (SSHP): The people! The number of faculty and staff who've been here a long time, tirelessly committed to the original mission of the University, through good times and bad, still dedicated to Simmons ideals, values, and success!
Dr. Ammina Kothari, Dean of the Gwen Ifill School of Media, Humanities, and the Social Sciences (Ifill): I appreciate the strong sense of community and willingness to collaborate across the university to provide an enriching educational experience for our students.
Dr. Michael LaSala, Dean of the School of Social Work (SSW): Its relatively small, intimate size and friendly, relational nature. I also love the diversity of the student population, suggesting that anyone and everyone can find a home here. Several faculty and staff have told me there is a Simmons magic, and I certainly feel it!
Dr. Astrid Sheil, Dean of the School of Management (SOM): Simmons is an amazingly welcoming community. From the moment you step onto campus, you can feel the energy. People really care about this place and each other.
Dr. Heather Shlosser, Dean of the School of Nursing (SON): I love the vibrant and interactive culture of the SON. The mission to prepare nurses for clinical excellence, leadership, and transformative practice resonates deeply with me. Our esteemed faculty and supportive staff foster an environment where every student can thrive, and it's incredibly rewarding to be part of a community that is dedicated to making a positive impact in a complicated health care landscape.
What is energizing about your role?
Dean Erdelez: The opportunity to innovate and shape the future of the profession by translating the latest developments in information and technology into cutting-edge education. This role allows me to prepare librarians and information specialists to meet evolving societal needs while ensuring that they are equipped with the skills and knowledge to lead in an ever-changing information landscape.
Dean Geisler: The small success stories: helping someone achieve their goals, finding solutions, and having productive conversations that reinforce the notion that we are all in this together, working towards the same goals and in alignment with the Simmons Vision.
Dean Kothari: The opportunity to work with my colleagues to foster critical thinking and empower students to engage deeply with the world around them, preparing them to thrive in a knowledge-based economy. We teach students to understand complex social issues, ask difficult questions, and become informed and compassionate leaders.
Dean LaSala: I work with amazing faculty and staff, and I enjoy getting to "bring glory" to the School by being a representative and ambassador of sorts as I attend and even host events in the community and at the School.
Dean Sheil: Two things: I work with great faculty who want to create relevant and excellent learning experiences for our students. I’m also inspired by our alumnae/i, who generously support the SOM with their time, talent, and treasure. What could be better than that?
Dean Shlosser: Witnessing the passion and ingenuity of our students as they answer the call to nursing, advanced practice, and nursing leadership. The focus on leadership and advocacy empowers our students to become change-makers in health care, and being part of their journey is both inspiring and fulfilling.
Can you share a unique fact about your school?
Dean Erdelez: The School of Library and Information Science is the only LIS school in the US that shares its founding with its parent institution. Simmons awarded its first 12 library science graduate degrees in 1904, predating its first undergraduate bachelor's degrees.
Dean Geisler: I would bet that we are the only school (our size) in the country that has ongoing STEM-focused grant programs from NASA and the Henry Luce Foundation!
Dean Kothari: We are the only school in the United States named after Gwen Ifill.
Dean LaSala: While the University is preparing to celebrate its 125th anniversary, the School of Social Work is celebrating its 120th, making it the oldest school of social work in the nation.
Dean Sheil: School of Management alumnae/i are very accomplished! I look forward to soliciting their input and support in developing the future direction of the School.
Dean Shlosser: Our commitment to integrating advanced technology and innovative teaching methods into our curriculum is unique. We're continually expanding our simulation center and clinical partnerships to provide students with hands-on, real-world experiences.
What is your favorite campus spot?
Dean Erdelez: The spiral maze in the quad. Its intricate design reflects the journey of learning and discovery, and I enjoy watching people navigate it throughout the seasons.
Dean Geisler: Walking the halls of the fourth floor of Lefavour Hall, talking with faculty and students whom I meet!
Dean Kothari: The hallway outside my office, where the inspiring words of Gwen Ifill remind me daily of our mission and shared vision.
Dean LaSala: I have two. The cupola on top of the Main College B building, for its beauty and history, and the tower under construction, which represents the future.
Dean Sheil: Common Grounds.
Dean Shlosser: My favorite spots are a tie between the University Library and the School of Nursing simulation center. The library is a treasure trove of knowledge and a peaceful haven for study and reflection. On the other hand, the simulation center is a dynamic hub of innovation where our nursing students gain invaluable hands-on experience.
What is one question you’d ask John Simmons?
Dean Erdelez: If I could meet John Simmons, I’d put him in a time machine and introduce him to our current students. I’d love to ask him if they embody the values and ideals he envisioned when founding this institution.
Dean Geisler: What was it, exactly, that inspired you to dedicate your estate and name towards the betterment of women?
Dean Kothari: What personal experiences shaped your decision to pursue the creation of a women’s college?
Dean LaSala: Is he happy with the way the University has developed over the years? How does it fit with what he intended?
Dean Sheil: I don't have a question, but I'd like to thank him for his prescient understanding of the importance of educating women to be financially independent.
Dean Shlosser: How do you feel about the legacy of the Simmons University School of Nursing, which was the first formal nursing program in New England and one of the first university-based nursing programs in the country? How does it align with your vision of empowering women to achieve independent livelihoods?
What is a fun fact people might not know about you?
Dean Erdelez: I enjoy challenging myself with new skills, like juggling and calligraphy, because they push me out of my comfort zone and help me develop patience and focus.
Dean Geisler: As part of the golf performance and fitness world, I played golf with NBA players Charles Barkley and Grant Hill, former Pistons Coach Chuck Daly, and a variety of golf and tennis pros. I was also the keynote speaker for the Swedish Golf Federation’s Medical Conference.
Dean Kothari: I’ve visited over 23 countries and have climbed Mount Kilimanjaro, which gave me a new perspective on perseverance.
Dean LaSala: I exercise six days per week. You might find me running across the street from Simmons in the Emerald Necklace park. Don't be alarmed if I shout out a hello as I pass by!
Dean Sheil: I love to play Puerto Rican Danza [ballroom dance] on the piano.
Dean Shlosser: I can often be found lost in a sea of books, always on the hunt for my next literary adventure. My love for reading is endless, and I'm constantly expanding my ever-growing collection.