Giancola to Lead School for Professional Studies as Search for New Dean Takes Place

Saint Louis University Provost Nancy Brickhouse, Ph.D., has appointed associate professor Jennifer Kohler Giancola, Ph.D., to serve as the interim dean of SLU’s School for Professional Studies (SPS). Her appointment is effective Sept. 1. Giancola will succeed Beth Freeburg, Ph.D., who will join the faculty of the School of Education.

Jennifer Kohler Giancola, Ph.D. A three-time SLU alumna, Giancola (pictured right) has been teaching in SPS since 1999. During the past 17 years, she has held a number of administrative posts, including serving as dean of the school from 2010-13.

“I am thrilled that Dr. Giancola has agreed to lead the school during this time of transition,” Brickhouse said. “I know that SPS is in good hands with someone so smart, energetic and collaborative at the helm.”

Brickhouse has formed a search committee to find a permanent dean for the school. Michael Lewis, Ph.D., associate provost for faculty affairs and development, is chairing the committee. Other members are:

Jenny Agnew, Ph.D., chair of the core curriculum and general studies program and assistant professor of English (SPS)
Collins Airhihenbuwa, Ph.D., dean of the College for Public Health and Social Justice
Katie Devany, instructor and coordinator of the hospitality management program (SPS)
Jennifer Kohler Giancola, Ph.D., associate professor and interim dean (SPS)
David Hakanson, vice president, chief information officer and chief innovation officer
Elizabeth Lawrence, business manager (SPS)
Srikanth Mudigonda, Ph.D., director of the applied analytics program (SPS)
John Ragsdale, Ph.D., associate dean for learning and outcome assessment (SPS)

Freeburg became dean of SPS in 2014. After fulfilling the terms of her assignment, she announced her intention to step down in February so that she could focus on other significant professional goals, including teaching, scholarship and service.

“I thank Dr. Freeburg for her service as dean, and I am pleased that she will continue to be a part of the SLU community in her new role,” Brickhouse said.