I am pleased to announce the appointment of Sara Morris, PhD, as the associate vice president for academic affairs, effective August 19, 2015.
Dr. Morris’ history with Canisius dates back to 1996 when she began her professional career here as an assistant professor in the biology department. Sara was promoted to associate professor in 2002 and to professor in 2006. Sara has also served as co-chair of the biology department since 2011 and is the program coordinator for the Environmental Science Program.
In addition, Sara’s commitment to the college community has been demonstrated through her work on the Faculty Senate, the Faculty Status Committee, the Educational Policy Committee, the Long Range Strategic Planning Committee, the Core Curriculum Task Force, the Strategic Assessment Planning Task Force, the Admissions Advisory Council, and numerous search committees. She has also demonstrated her strong leadership commitment through her work with various professional organizations. She currently serves as Fellow for the American Ornithologists’ Union, and is the first vice president for the Wilson Ornithological Society. In addition, she has received many internal and external professional awards, fellowships, grants and has a robust scholarship resume which includes mentorship of many undergraduate co-authors.
Having earned her B.S. in biology and B.A. in French and fine arts from Presbyterian College and an M.S. and PhD in zoology from Cornell University, she has returned to the classroom at Canisius to study Spanish.
I would like to extend a special thanks to the search committee comprised of Dr. Terri Mangione, co-chair; Dr. Karl Kozlowski, co-chair, Dr. Patricia Erickson, Dr. Mark Meyer and Dr. Mary Shea. Your hard work and sage advice have facilitated the selection of an outstanding individual to help lead the academic division.
Dr. Morris’ expertise, reputation, and long tenure at the college will no doubt prove to be invaluable in her new role. Please join me in congratulating Sara on her appointment.
Submitted by: Margaret C. McCarthy, PhD, vice president, academic affairs
