GRAD CLAS NOTES

College of Liberal Arts and Sciences Graduate Newsletter

GRAD CLASNOTESCollege of Liberal Arts and Sciences Graduate Newsletter
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Message from the Dean

Summer is upon us, and while campus may be a bit quieter, great scholarship is still being done and important career connections are being made as our students participate in summer research fellowships, take summer courses, attend conferences, and travel for research or personal enrichment. Summer is a great time to recharge your batteries, prepare for the fall semester or explore a new path on your life journey!


For our students who graduated this May, I want to thank you for all you have contributed to our Villanova community. I am inspired by your passion for scholarship and your commitment to working to make our world a better place. Please know that you always have a home at Villanova, and, even after graduation, services such as the Nova Network and the Career Center can help you navigate your academic and professional career.


To our new students – welcome! We are excited for you to begin your graduate studies at Villanova and we look forward to meeting you in the coming months. In this newsletter, we will share grad studies news, research and enrichment opportunities, and helpful tips to keep in mind throughout the year.


One final note: you may have already seen the news that I have accepted a new position as dean of the College of Professional Studies at Villanova. Since April, I have been serving as both interim dean of CPS and dean of Graduate Studies, and now I am happy to share that I will continue to serve the University in each of these roles. I am honored and humbled to be appointed dean of CPS while continuing to oversee the graduate enterprise in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. Getting to know our graduate students is the best part of my job, and I am overjoyed to be able to continue in my role with CLAS.


I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge the support of my amazing colleagues in the Graduate Studies Office. Without their dedication, commitment and hard work, this new leadership structure would not be possible. I am indebted to them for their willingness to embrace change and accept new responsibilities. They exemplify the unique values of unitas and caritas that guide our exceptional Villanova community.


- Christine Palus, PhD, Dean of Graduate Studies, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences

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Christine Palus, PhD, Named Dean of the College of Professional Studies

Christine Palus, PhD, is a visionary academic leader dedicated to continuing the University’s long-standing tradition of service to adult learners. She will continue to serve as Dean of Graduate Studies in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences in addition to serving as the new dean of the College of Professional Studies. Read more.

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Passion for Social Change and Activism Drives Communication Master’s Student to Pursue Doctorate

Micki Burdick ’18 MA joined the Master’s program in Communication with a passion for activism and aspirations to improve her writing and research skills. While Villanova certainly helped Burdick sharpen her scholarship, it also helped her discern a career path in which she can channel her passion for social change. Read more.
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Congratulations to our Graduates!

This May, the University conferred two doctoral degrees and 297 master's degrees upon students in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. While weather drove Saturday's Graduate Convocation indoors, the weekend was a memorable one for our graduates. Be sure to check out photos from Convocation on our Facebook page, as well as photos from Commencement Weekend in the University photo galleries!

Graduate Studies Office Moves to St. Mary's

We've moved to West Campus! The Office of Graduate Studies has relocated to St. Mary's Hall, Suite 109 for the coming months. All phone numbers remain the same.

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Events, Reminders and Tips

NOVA NETWORK - Villanova's Social and Professional Networking Platform

Through the Nova Network, you can find Villanovans in your industry and local area, discuss career-related topics and access resources for your professional development. You can sign up within a few minutes, and you can even use your LinkedIn account. Learn more.


New Student Orientation - August 24
New students - please mark your calendars on Friday, August 24 for our New Student Orientation from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at The Inn at Villanova. If you have not done so already, please register for the event. Orientation is a fun and helpful event you do not want to miss!


Academic Calendar - Fall Classes Begin August 27
The Graduate Academic Calendar is a useful tool for planning your coursework and keeping up with deadlines, breaks and key University dates. Fall classes begin August 27!