NIU committee appoints interim deans for Visual & Performing Arts and Liberal Arts & Sciences

The Academic Affairs, Student Affairs, and Personnel Committee on May 7 approved two interim dean appointments and asked the president to forward both recommendations to the Northern Illinois University Board of Trustees for final action.

Committee vice chair John Butler opened the meeting and Provost Lori Eilish Piper presented the recommendations. Piper said the university recommends appointing Dr. Andrew Glendening as interim dean of the College of Visual and Performing Arts effective July 1, 2026, noting his seven years as director of the School of Music, program accreditation experience and a record of administrative leadership. Trustee Rita Athas moved to approve the appointment; Trustee Eric Wasowitz seconded and, with no discussion, the motion carried by voice vote. Dr. Glendening thanked the committee and said he looked forward to "doing this job" and supporting students and faculty.

Piper then presented the recommendation to appoint Dr. Amanda Durek as interim dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, effective July 1, 2026, describing Durek’s 21 years at NIU and her leadership roles in the college. Trustee Soumage Strum moved the appointment and Trustee James Innes seconded; the committee approved the motion by voice vote. Dr. Durek thanked the trustees and said she approaches the role as a "service leader" and intends to support students and collaborate with university partners.

Both items will be included in the president’s report to the board of trustees for consideration at the board's special meeting.