President Wippman’s Writings & Remarks

I am pleased to share the names of those who have agreed to serve on the search committee for our next Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of Faculty.

I hope you have had a productive and satisfying semester despite what feels like a never-ending pandemic. Many of us continue to manage difficulties both at work and at home, so thank you all for hanging in there and for helping us strike the right balance between safety and normalcy. We are now well into our planning for the spring semester. This message contains important information – please read it thoroughly and take note of the required actions.

I’m pleased to share that Terry Martinez has returned as vice president and dean of students following her leave. Throughout her time at Hamilton, Terry has consistently advocated for students’ intellectual and personal growth, while partnering with those across campus to ensure a safe and supportive learning and living environment. I am sure you share my enthusiasm for working with her again.

Dear Members of the Hamilton Community,

On Friday, Dec. 3, the Board of Trustees held its annual winter meeting in New York City in conjunction with the 1812 Leadership Circle Weekend. Attendees were grateful to have the meeting in person for the first time since the start of the pandemic, although some trustees joined via Zoom.

Earlier today, Scripps College announced that Suzanne Keen, vice president for academic affairs (VPAA) and dean of faculty, has been named its 10th president. This appointment, which is effective July 1, 2022, is a well-deserved honor for Suzanne and a great loss for Hamilton. Scripps saw in Suzanne what we have witnessed since July 2018 at Hamilton: a highly effective scholar, teacher, and administrator with great integrity, character, and vision who works tirelessly and creatively to advance academic priorities and the primacy of the liberal arts. She advocates strongly for the faculty, always mindful of what’s best for our students.

As many of you prepare to spend the Thanksgiving break with family and friends, I write to express my gratitude for the care and support members of our community show for each other, and to wish everyone a safe, happy, and relaxing holiday break. This is also an opportune time to show appreciation to the family and friends who support and encourage us and to consider ways we can contribute to our communities. Please travel safely, take time to rest, and enjoy the break.

I have several important updates to share about the search for a full-time chief diversity officer (CDO) at Hamilton.

The flags in front of Siuda House and at Facilities Management are flying at half staff to honor the memory and service of David Smith, master maintenance mechanic, who died Tuesday.

The fall semester has gone well so far, but I know many of you are still managing additional responsibilities on campus, while worrying about the health and safety of family members at home. The coronavirus pandemic is never far from our minds, and unfortunately this does not seem likely to change soon.

Vice President and Dean of Students Terry Martinez will be on medical leave beginning Monday, Oct. 11. We will miss her and her leadership during this temporary leave, and I know you join me in wishing her well.