September 29, 2008
MEDIA CONTACT: Michelle Sherrard
(202) 994-1423; mcs1@gwu.edu
KATHLEEN M. BURKE NAMED DEAN OF GW'S COLLEGE OF PROFESSIONAL STUDIES
WASHINGTON - George Washington University President Steven Knapp has announced the selection of Kathleen M. Burke as dean of GW's College of Professional Studies. Dr. Burke, who will assume her post on Oct. 20, 2008, currently is a higher education consultant with IBM Corporation. She previously served as dean of Trinity University's School of Professional Studies, assistant vice president for adult and continuing education at Marymount University, founding dean of Georgia Southern University's Division of Continuing Education and Public Service, as well as associate dean of undergraduate studies at the University of Maryland, College Park.
"Kathleen Burke's experience and demonstrated leadership in continuing education make her a perfect fit for GW's College of Professional Studies," said Dr. Knapp. "She brings to the University a keen understanding of both higher education and the business community. These attributes will serve to advance the college's reputation among the region's working professionals who seek superior programs in sought-after fields of study. As I welcome Dr. Burke to GW, I also want to offer my thanks to former Dean Roger Whitaker who is now on sabbatical, as well as Professor Ali Eskandarian who has been serving in an interim capacity."
Donald R. Lehman, executive vice president for academic affairs, added, "Under the leadership of former Dean Roger Whitaker, the College of Professional Studies experienced impressive growth. I am very pleased to welcome Kathleen Burke as the college's new dean. With her distinguished academic and corporate background she will be a strong leader. I am confident she will keep the college at the forefront of professional education."
"I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to the outstanding quality of The George Washington University through leadership of the College of Professional Studies," said Dr. Burke. The college today enjoys much success due to the superb initiatives of departing dean Roger Whitaker and its faculty and staff. We will build upon this momentum with new programs and services for the region's workforce. Today's professionals want universities to provide professionally delivered curricula and support systems that meet their needs. The College of Professional Studies will continue to enhance learning opportunities for a diverse array of professionals who engage the University as non-traditional students. In so doing, we will enrich our students, our region, and our nation."
Dr. Burke has enjoyed membership in a number of professional and academic organizations, including the University Continuing Education Association, where she previously served on its board of directors. She graduated from Loyola College with an undergraduate degree in English. She received her Master of Arts in English language and literature from Oxford University and earned her Ph.D. from the University of Maryland, College Park. Her doctoral specialization is Modern British Literature.
GW's College of Professional Studies programs are designed with the requirements of adult learners and working professionals in mind. The college offers undergraduate and graduate programs that address the competency requirements of adults working in emerging and rapidly changing professions. Its innovative programs are typically co-developed through collaboration among University content specialists and outside partners -- government agencies, professional associations, consulting organizations, and business and industry leaders.
For more information about GW's College of Professional Studies, visit http://cps.gwu.edu.
For more news about The George Washington University, visit the GW News Center at www.gwnewscenter.org.
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