Exciting Leadership Opportunities: Meet the Finalists for Dean of the College of Education, Health, and Society (EHS)
As the College of Education, Health, and Society (EHS) at Miami University embarks on the important journey of selecting its next dean, the anticipation surrounding this leadership appointment continues to grow. Three accomplished finalists have been named, each bringing unique experiences and perspectives to the table. Open forums for each candidate are set to take place this month in both King Library and McGuffey Hall, offering the university community a chance to engage and learn more about their potential future leader.
Amity Noltemeyer: A Visionary in Educational Psychology
The first candidate, Amity Noltemeyer, has been a fixture at Miami University since 2010, initially joining as a faculty member in the Department of Educational Psychology. Over her tenure, she has worn many hats, ascending to leadership roles such as associate dean of the Graduate School and chair of the Department of Educational Psychology. Her breadth of experience also includes coordinating the School Psychology program. These varied roles have equipped Noltemeyer with a deep understanding of the inner workings and strategic needs of EHS.
Currently serving as the interim dean of EHS, Noltemeyer leads a vibrant community encompassing approximately 3,000 students and 180 faculty and staff. This interim position has allowed her to showcase her capability in providing strategic vision and fostering a collaborative environment. Beyond her administrative accomplishments, Noltemeyer is well-regarded for her practical experience as a school psychologist. Her leadership extends beyond the university, as she has held the presidency of the Ohio School Psychologists Association and contributed as editor-in-chief of School Psychology International.
The opportunity to interact with Noltemeyer will occur during two open forums: one scheduled for October 14 from 4-5 p.m. at 134 King Library, and another on October 15 from 9-10 a.m. at 322 McGuffey Hall.
Renae Swanson: Champion of Diversity and Interdisciplinary Education
The second finalist, Renae Swanson, currently serves as the interim dean of the College of Education and Human Services at the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh. Swanson’s leadership spans five diverse departments, including Counseling and Human Services and Teaching and Learning. Her commitment to innovative approaches in interdisciplinary education and change leadership has set her apart as a forward-thinking leader in academia.
Swanson’s track record is rooted in her previous roles as a professor, chair of the Department of Professional Counseling and Human Services, and associate dean. Her dedication to fostering diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging within academic structures enhances her candidacy. Swanson’s emphasis on inclusive excellence resonates deeply with the evolving needs of educational institutions today.
Engagement opportunities with Swanson will also take place in two forums: one on October 16 from 4-5 p.m. in 134 King Library, followed by a session on October 17 from 9-10 a.m. in 322 McGuffey Hall.
Ronald Werner-Wilson: A Leader with National Experience
The final candidate, Ronald Werner-Wilson, brings a wealth of experience from his extensive academic career across multiple universities. His previous positions include faculty roles at Western Michigan University, Colorado State University, Iowa State University, the University of Kentucky, and North Dakota State University. In June 2022, he was appointed dean of the College of Human Sciences and Education at North Dakota State. His administrative tenure expanded when he transitioned into the role of interim dean of the College of Health and Human Sciences after a successful internal search.
Werner-Wilson played a pivotal role in navigating a significant reorganization that merged two colleges, ultimately overseeing a substantial academic unit consisting of over 2,800 students, 127 faculty, and a $21 million operating budget. His ability to manage such large-scale educational entities emphasizes his capacity for strategic leadership and fiscal responsibility.
The university community will have the chance to hear from Werner-Wilson during forums on October 21 from 4-5 p.m. at 134 King Library and October 22 from 9-10 a.m. at 322 McGuffey Hall.
Get Involved
These forums provide an invaluable opportunity for students, faculty, and staff to engage directly with the candidates, ask questions, and offer feedback. As EHS seeks to define the future of its leadership, the selection of the new dean will undoubtedly shape the college’s trajectory and impact on the broader academic community.
More information about the candidates and access to their curriculum vitae is available on the EHS dean search webpage. Explore the diverse visions and commitments of these finalists as Miami University paves the way for its next chapter in educational excellence.