Feminist scholar and multidisciplinary researcher Barbara Crow was appointed dean of the Faculty of Arts and Science in December 2016. Her term, which began in July, brings a fresh start for both herself and the faculty.

“Although I have really enjoyed settling into my new role, the excitement in the air when everyone arrives back on campus in September, especially in a residential university like Queen’s, is unlike anything else,” Crow wrote in an email to The Journal.

Crow has extensive experience in innovative teaching, previously holding an administrative positions at York University as dean and associate vice-president in the graduate studies department.

“There are many differences between the two institutions,” she added. “The undergraduate program here is unparalleled, and I look forward to working with our colleagues in the School of Graduate Studies to ensure it is just as revered.”

With time spent working as a co-principal investigator for the ACT Project — a Concordia-based project seeking to confront digital ageism — and as a former chair for the Ontario Council of Graduate Studies, Crow has demonstrated a broad spectrum of academic reach. Through her professional career, Crow’s research is focused on the social, cultural, political and economic implications of digital technologies.

“Universities are dynamic institutions – and many demands have been made of them over the centuries,” she wrote. “Currently, there is significant attention in the post-secondary sector on learning outcomes and employment opportunities for university graduates.”

One of her major areas of focus while settling in as Dean includes ensuring there are opportunities and initiatives for students to delve further into research.

Crow mentioned the existence of the Arts and Science Undergraduate Research Fund (ASURF) and the creation of a new research hub for students in the faculty. The research hub, available through ASUS services, seeks to develop student researcher profiles while featuring them online.

“One area where the faculty and student learning outcomes have merged has been to more overtly engage in undergraduate research initiatives,” she wrote.

Crow will serve as dean of the faculty for a five-year term, replacing interim dean Gordon Smith.

When asked if she had any concerns entering the faculty, Crow wrote, “concerns may not be the right word.” She cited admiration for the university’s recent commitment to issues surrounding diversity, inclusivity and improving mental health services on campus.

“I can already tell the Queen’s community is unlike any other,” she said. “Through working with students, staff, and faculty members we can ensure that we are doing everything we can to support each other, to face challenges head-on, and to make Queen’s the best place to be.”