Chatham, one of the oldest women’s colleges in the country, is now Chatham University and has selected three women as the first Deans of the institution’s new academic structure.
As part of its new identity, Chatham has divided itself into three separate colleges. Dr. Anne A. Skleder was named dean of Chatham College for Women, the University's historic women's residential college; Dr. Norma J. Burgess will lead the College for Graduate Studies; and Dr. Janet L. Littrell will head the College for Continuing and Professional Studies, which includes the university's online degree and community programs.
“Becoming a university is one of the most important events in Chatham’s 138-year history, one that truly defines who we are as an institution," says Laura Armesto, vice president of academic affairs. "Moreover, it strengthens and secures the undergraduate women’s residential college, which remains as Chatham’s historic heart."
Prior to Chatham, Skleder was associate professor of psychology at Alvernia College in Reading, Pennsylvania. Burgess was a professor at Syracuse University where she also served as department chair for nine years and Littrell previously served in various positions at the University of Arizona in Tucson.
Chatham was founded as Pennsylvania Female College in 1869, changed to Pennsylvania College for Women in 1890, became Chatham College in 1955 and Chatham University in 2007. It remains an all-women’s college for undergrads. Co-educational graduate programs have been offered since 1994.
Writer: Deb Smit
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Photograph copyright © Jonathan Greene