New Graduate School Dean Hired

March 27, 2008

ROCK HILL, S.C. – Dr. Yvonne M. Murnane, director of graduate studies at State University of New York College at Cortland, will become Winthrop University’s new dean of the Graduate School. The appointment will become effective July 1.

Winthrop’s Graduate School provides leadership and oversight for the university’s 24 graduate degree programs and summer school. Graduate School programs work to meet the growing demands of the community through development of students’ leadership and professional skills.

Murnane has led SUNY at Cortland’s graduate studies program since 2003. She has a background in teacher education as a literacy educator, developer and director of an innovative master of science in education program and has participated in the development of undergraduate and graduate curriculum within teacher education.

Winthrop officials said Murnane has successfully led reorganization efforts of the graduate school program on Cortland’s campus. “Dr. Murnane has demonstrated the breadth and depth of capacities we know are essential for effective leadership of Winthrop’s graduate programs. Her background, experience and personal qualities will serve her and us well in this position,” said Tom Moore, vice president for academic affairs.

Moore said the new dean also will work on some new goals for the Graduate School, including collaborating with other deans and graduate directors in the various colleges to develop programs to serve students and the region. She will develop and implement plans to increase participation in summer school.

In her current job, Murnane has directed Cortland’s summer and winter sessions and the Mohawk Valley Graduate Center. Prior to going to Cortland, she was assistant/associate professor of literacy education at St. Norbert College, worked as an instructor at Alverno College and Marquette University and taught in public and private schools in Texas, Illinois and Wisconsin.

Murnane holds a bachelor’s degree in English from Indiana University, a master’s degree in reading and a Ph.D. in curriculum and instruction, both from Marquette University.