VSU Appoints Richards as Dean of College of Arts and Sciences

VALDOSTA--Dr. Connie L. Richards has been appointed dean of Valdosta State University’s College of Arts and Sciences, effective July 1. Richards replaces Dr. Linda Calendrillo, who retired in May after leading the college for the past five years.

“I am delighted to join the Valdosta State University team and look forward to working with the talented and dedicated faculty and staff in the College of Arts and Sciences, as well as our colleagues across campus.,” said Richards. “The strong arts and sciences programs attest to the vision, hard work and student centeredness that are part of VSU’s rich tradition. I wish to revere these past accomplishments as we collectively shape our vision for the future.”

Richards is currently the interim dean of the Fulton School of Liberal Arts, at Salisbury University, Md., a four-year comprehensive university with approximately 7,500 students. She has served as director of Freshmen English, director of the Writing Center, chair of the English Department and associate dean of Liberal Arts. Her experience also includes leadership in a number of university-wide initiatives such as Writing Across the Curriculum, the High School Advanced Placement Program and International Programs.

“Dr. Richards has a strong record of teaching, scholarship and service in her discipline,” said Dr. Louis Levy, vice president for Academic Affairs. “She will be very involved with general education and the core curriculum, faculty development, student success, advising, personnel matters, budget management and numerous other duties for the College of Arts and Sciences.”