On Monday, August 10, Dean Ibba presented to Schmid College faculty and staff the goals he plans to focus on in his first year as dean. We have outlined his main priorities below.

Maintain high standards of personalized education during COVID-19 pandemic

A majority of Dean Ibba’s focus in the first year will be to learn all there is to know about Schmid College and make sure we are maintaining the high standards of teaching, research, and service. He is evaluating the challenges the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has posed to these standards and is working with associate deans and faculty to adjust our programs and services, so students continue to receive the highest level of the Chapman experience. You can learn how Schmid College has already taken steps this summer to prepare for fall online instruction here. 

Diversity and Inclusion

Review existing education, learning, and training programs on racial injustice, implicit bias, and gender inequity. Dean Ibba plans to develop new programs and activities to advance cultural change and growth in Schmid College.

Proactively engage in research activities directed towards:

  • Ensuring the continuation of research engagement for undergraduates.
  • Productive ongoing operation of faculty research under modified conditions.
  • Actively seeking new funding arising from COVID-19 related relief/stimulus programs and other sources. 

Engage in advancement and development activities

Work alongside University Advancement to maintain our donor relations and cultivate new relationships to build more support for Schmid College. 

Initiate formal faculty and staff mentoring programs

  • Staff – Focus on career progression and training opportunities. 
  • Faculty – Focus on post-tenure development activities.

Initiate Review of Schmid Graduate Programs

Dean Ibba has extensive experience working with graduate students and overseeing graduate programs at his previous institution. He plans to analyze what support is needed and identify ways our graduate programs can grow.