Kim Dej, an associate professor and associate director (curriculum and pedagogy) in the School of Interdisciplinary Science, has been appointed McMaster’s associate vice-provost, faculty.

“From an extensive search, Dr. Dej stood out in terms of her vision, team leadership skills and administrative acumen,” wrote provost David Farrar in a memo to the Senate committee on appointments. “She has developed strong working relationships with her colleagues and peers at McMaster and beyond. Dr. Dej will bring outstanding leadership as the Associate Vice-Provost, Faculty.”

Dej, who has been at McMaster since 2004 and holds a PhD in biology from Johns Hopkins University, has taught in the Life Sciences program since 2009. A Paul R. MacPherson Teaching Fellow, she has won several teaching awards including the McMaster President’s Award for Outstanding Contributions to Teaching and Learning, a McMaster Students Union Award (Science), an OCUFA Teaching Award, and a YWCA Women of Distinction Award for Education and Mentorship.

“I’m honoured and delighted to take on this role,” says Dej. “Across McMaster we have countless examples of our strength and creativity as a community, unifying learning and research in creative ways. I’m looking forward to working together, across all our faculties and programmes, to advance these efforts.”

The associate vice-provost, faculty, provides assistance to faculties and faculty members in their efforts to improve the undergraduate academic experience, particularly in areas advancing interdisciplinary studies, community engagement, experiential learning, educational access, equity and inclusion, and academic integrity. The role also provides support for faculty professional and leadership development, community engagement, and oversight for partnerships with Mohawk College and Six Nations Polytechnic.