I am writing today to tell you how thrilled I am to have been chosen to serve as the next associate provost for graduate and professional education and dean of the Graduate College. I am honored to have the opportunity to serve you, the college, and the university in this important role.

Dean John Keller has been an extraordinary leader for the college and the university for over 20+ years. Under his guidance, the Graduate College has transformed from a transactional to a transformational academic, administrative unit. He is one of the most highly regarded graduate college deans in the country. I am personally grateful for all he has done for others during his career, and I’m especially appreciative of the support and encouragement he is providing me during this transition. I am certain he will be missed and that I have enormous shoes to fill.

My time spent interviewing with the college’s highly committed staff, faculty, students, and postdocs revealed a wealth of expertise and your passion for advancing the successes of the college’s diverse group of graduate and professional students. The Graduate College is successful in achieving an array of goals, thanks to you. I look forward to working with each of you to build on John’s legacy as we look at the future of graduate and professional education from a fresh perspective.

I will step into my new role on July 1, 2021. In the beginning, much of my time will be spent getting to know you and the inner workings of the college. I am eager to listen and learn about your experiences, your goals, and your vision for graduate and professional education at Iowa. While I know my schedule will fill up quickly, I would like the chance to speak with all of the college’s constituencies. Please contact my assistant, Wendy Danger, to secure a date/time.

Again, I look forward to starting this journey alongside all of you. My thanks, in advance, for helping me transition into this exciting position.

Sincerely,

Amanda