Brian Jennings, Ph.D., was appointed interim dean of undergraduate studies by Provost Juline Mills, Ph.D., on Sept. 8.
“Dr. Jennings’ knowledge of curriculum and programmatic assessment, data analysis, and ability to think critically and creatively will be an asset to the position and to Academic Affairs,” Mills shared upon the announcement.
Dr. Jennings joined Westfield State and the Department of Mathematics in 2010. He holds an M.S. and Ph.D. in applied mathematics from the University of Michigan with a specialization in mathematical physics, and a B.S. in physics from John Carroll University.
Throughout his time at the University, Dr. Jennings has served in various leadership roles, including as department chair for three years, and as general secretary and moderator of the WSU MSCA chapter. He has served in numerous university-wide committees, including the Curriculum Committee, Special Committee on Core Assessment, Advisory Committee for Academic Planning, and the Presidential Search Committee. Currently, he serves as co-chair of the Special Committee on Reforming General Education (SCORE).
As interim dean of undergraduate studies, part of his responsibilities will include providing coordination, support, and guidance for the accreditation and assessment processes of academic departments and offices. Dr. Jennings will also research and provide professional development support for faculty and staff related to accreditation and assessment, and will serve on the University’s Incident Management Team.