New academic leadership appointments at Werklund School

On July 1st, the Werklund School of Education welcomed Dr. Michele Jacobsen, PhD, as the new Vice Dean, replacing Dr. Sharon Friesen, PhD, who served in the role for eight years. Following five years as Associate Dean, Graduate Program in Education, and as a four-time alumna of the University of Calgary, Dr. Jacobsen has deep roots in the Werklund School.

“I am very proud of the quality and diversity of graduate programs that we offer to learners in an extended global community,” Jacobsen says. “Our students have told us that they find graduate study to be a transformative life experience. It has been such a privilege and honor to serve students, staff and academic colleagues as the Associate Dean. I know that as I move on to the Vice Dean role, I am leaving this portfolio in good hands with an exceptional team.”

Joining Jacobsen in new academic leadership appointments are Dr. Janet Groen, PhD, Associate Dean, Graduate Program in Education, and Dr. Amy Burns, PhD, Associate Dean, Undergraduate Program in Education.

Also appointed to new positions are Dr. Erika Makarenko, PsyD, as Director of Integrated Services in Education, and Dr. Katherine Mueller, PhD, as Director of Field Experiences.

Re-appointments in 2018 include Dr. Jennifer Lock, PhD, as Associate Dean Teaching and Learning, and Dr. Colleen Kawaliak, PhD, as Associate Dean International.