Dr. Wendy Rodgers, a leading scholar in exercise psychology, becomes the Faculty's new vice dean on July 1.
Professor Wendy Rodgers will step into the role as vice dean of the Faculty on July 1. Rodgers, an internationally renowned scholar in exercise psychology, has significant administrative experience and says the vice dean role was a draw for just those reasons.
"I took on this role because I am interested in the administrative side of academics - mostly finding and then implementing structures and policies that facilitate the work of faculty," she said, adding, "I spent a year as Acting Director of Research Ethics which gave me a broader perspective on how policies and procedures can facilitate research as well as support the University in meeting its legislated obligations."
Additionally, Rodgers has accrued considerable experience in administration serving on several Faculty evaluation committees (across the University) where she gained a deep understanding of faculty evaluation processes, procedures and standards as applied university-wide.
Rodgers says the 'climate change' in higher education in terms of shrinking budgets and industry demands for ever more graduates able to hit the ground running, is nudging universities to aim higher and branch out in new directions to make their mark.
"This is a time of change within academe more broadly as we look for ways to meet the educational and research needs of growing and changing work, social and health environments, with increased pressure on faculties to be both excellent in research and education as well as relevant and connected to communities," she said. "Also, new attention is focused on how to best measure and represent our important contributions to science and society.
"Within our multi-faceted faculty, I'm very interested in exploring creative ways of developing our programs and re-defining traditional academic 'workloads' to maximize potential and relevance in program content and delivery, and in staff development, productivity and job-satisfaction."
Dean Kerry Mummery, who announced Rodgers' appointment , said, "Dr. Rodgers has been a valued member of the Faculty of Physical Education and Recreation for many years where she has played a leading role as a scholar in the area of physical activity and health, and administrator in her previous role as Associate Dean of Research. Wendy has been very involved with faculty and university governance, playing an integral role in the recent changes to the Human Research Ethics Program."
Rodgers takes the reins from Dr. Dan Syrotuik, who holds the position until June 30. Mummery thanked Syrotuik for his exceptional service to the Faculty both as vice dean and acting dean, following the departure of Dean Mike Mahon to become president of the University of Lethbridge, and the appointment of Dean Mummery. "Dan has given excellent service to the faculty over his career in teaching, research, coaching and administration," said Mummery.
In the wings, Rodgers looks forward to a position that marries her skills as an administrator with her love of research. "I think that my best contribution to the faculty can be made through the vice dean role than through a strictly teaching and research position."