Dr. Stephanie Cosner, Provost, is a Professor of Social Work and served as both Vice Provost and Inaugural Dean of the College of Social Sciences, Policy, and Practice at Simmons. Dr. Cosner is an experienced higher education leader bringing more than 10 years of administrative experience to this position. Her administrative experience is complemented by scholarship and teaching in social innovation, technology and social sector leadership.
As Provost, Dr. Cosner will lead the vision and strategy for the full range of Simmons’ academic offerings, including the institution’s diverse mix of undergraduate, graduate, campus-based, and online programs. She will also guide the implementation of Simmons’ new academic programs and accelerated master’s degree offerings.
As a prolific scholar, Dr. Cosner has published more than 70 works and shared her research with local, national and international audiences. Her book, Innovation From Within: Redefining How Nonprofits Solve Problems (Oxford, 2018), helps nonprofit organizations develop strategies for innovation. Prior to her arrival at Simmons, Dr. Cosner served as Assistant Dean, Doctoral Program Director, Chair of the Social Innovation and Leadership Program, and Chair of Children, Youth and Families at the Boston College School of Social Work. As the Founder and Co-Director of the Boston College Center for Social Innovation, she worked to build the evidence-base for social innovation and promote the capacity of social sector agencies. Dr. Cosner also co-leads the Grand Challenge for Social Work, Harnessing Technology for Social Good, designed to integrate technology into social work teaching, research, and practice.
Dr. Cosner graduated cum laude from Cornell University with a Bachelor of Arts in psychology, earned her M.S. from Columbia University, and a Ph.D. from the School of Social Welfare at the University of California, Berkeley.
Publications
Her most recent book was published by Oxford University Press, Innovation From Within: Redefining How Nonprofits Solve Problems (2018). Dr. Cosner graduated cum laude from Cornell University with a Bachelor of Arts in psychology, earned her MSW from Columbia University, and a PhD from the School of Social Welfare at the University of California, Berkeley.
Stephanie Cosner in the News
Dr. Astrid Sheil Selected as Dean of the School of Management
As Dean, Dr. Sheil will play a pivotal role in leadership and relaunch of our School of Management – a vital part of Simmons’ forward-looking academic structure. Dr. Sheil has a passion for women’s-centered undergraduate and graduate business education, and a strong vision for how Simmons can leverage its rich history, leadership, and expertise in this area.
Simmons University Celebrates the Class of 2024
On Friday, May 17, 2024, Simmons University celebrated the 119th Commencement Ceremonies at the MGM Music Hall at Fenway. These events honored the many accomplishments of the Class of 2024. Simmons awarded over 500 baccalaureate degrees and nearly 2,100 graduate degrees during these ceremonies.
Simmons University Selects Dr. Stephanie Cosner as Provost
As Provost, Dr. Cosner will lead the vision and strategy for the full range of Simmons’ academic offerings, including the institution’s diverse mix of undergraduate, graduate, campus-based, and online programs. Dr. Russell Pinizzotto will serve as Chief Operating Officer and Kerri Brophy will be Vice President, Chief Marketing, Enrollment, and Communications Officer.
Announcing Our New Provost and Chief Operating Officer
Stephanie Cosner will serve as Provost to lead the vision and strategy for the full range of Simmons’ academic offerings. Russ Pinizzotto will serve as Chief Operating Officer to oversee and coordinate many of the University’s critical daily operations, including in technology, finance, and facilities.
Higher Education Leader Dr. Stephanie Cosner Berzin Named Vice Provost at Simmons
Simmons University is pleased to announce that Dr. Stephanie Cosner Berzin has been selected to serve as Vice Provost. Dr. Cosner Berzin, an experienced higher education leader, brings substantial experience working with faculty and the administration.
Simmons Doctorate of Social Work Program Welcomes New Students
The Simmons University Doctorate of Social Work online program is attractive to experienced social work professionals, enabling students to pursue and advance in diverse clinical social work careers.
Simmons University’s Public Health Programs Earn Accreditation by the Council on Education for Public Health
The public health programs at Simmons prepare students to work toward achieving health equity at the local, national and global levels.
Simmons University Launches New Online Doctorate of Social Work Program
The online DSW program enables students to pursue diverse clinical social work careers through a unique focus on leadership, clinical practice and teaching.