Sandra S. Stone has been appointed assistant dean of graduate studies at the University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee campus. She began her new position on July 1.
Stone is former chair of the campus’ Social Sciences Department and regional chancellor of the USF Sarasota-Manatee campus (2014-2017). She previously served as vice president of academic affairs at Dalton State College (Georgia). She earned a doctoral degree in sociology from Emory University in Atlanta.
“This is a very exciting opportunity, personally, professionally and for the campus as a whole, and I am delighted to serve in this capacity,” Stone said.
A newly created position, the assistant dean of graduate studies is responsible for promoting, expanding and enhancing the campus’ graduate-degree programs.
The position is closely aligned with the campus’ Office of Academic Affairs and Student Success and USF’s Office of Graduate Studies. Stone expects also to work closely with campus deans and department heads and continue to serve as a professor, teaching criminology.
The Sarasota-Manatee campus offers master’s degrees in business administration, criminal justice, educational leadership, elementary education, hospitality management and social work. Courses are offered both on campus and through distance learning.
“Dr. Stone is a tremendous addition and I welcome her valuable insights and guidance as the Sarasota-Manatee campus looks to increase graduate student activity on our campus,” said Brett Kemker, vice provost and regional vice chancellor for academic affairs and student success at the Sarasota-Manatee campus.
Among Stone's initial plans are to meet with academic leaders to assess the campus' existing programs and then with business, non-profit and government representatives to determine the kinds of new programs that would be welcome.
“There are some graduate degrees offered at other colleges in the area, but we are the primary institution from Tampa to Fort Myers offering graduate degrees,” she said. “That’s why it’s so important to meet with local leaders to understand what programs are needed to support the region.”
She also plans to continue discussions regarding the introduction of PhD programs to the Sarasota-Manatee campus and ways to provide opportunities for graduate assistants to engage in research projects. Stone said she was drawn to the position because of its potential to impact the campus.
“I saw this as a good opportunity to be part of something new and to help our existing programs flourish while bringing new programs to the campus,” she said. “I also liked the idea of making a difference to our students and to the area.”
To learn more about the USF Sarasota-Manatee campus, visit www.sarasotamanatee.usf.edu.