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Dean of the College

Vassar College

Announcement: Dean of First Year Students

posted

Dear all,

Please see the memo below from Dean of Studies, Tom Porcello, regarding an update in the Dean of Studies Office. 

Warmly,
Dean Alamo

Dear all,

The Dean of Studies Office is pleased to welcome Dr. Mary Ellen Czesak to the role of Dean of First-Year Students effective August 1, 2025. Dean Czesak replaces Dr. Lioba Gerhardi, who served in the role in the 2023/24 and 2024/25 academic years, and who we thank for her extraordinary service.

Mary Ellen Czesak, Ph.D. in Entomology, has been a Senior Lecturer and dedicated member of the Vassar Biology Department since 2003. She is passionate about inclusive teaching, especially in introductory biology courses. Advising students is among her greatest joys by connecting students to resources and helping them navigate their path to success. She had the pleasure of being the class advisor for the Class of 2025 starting in their sophomore year until their graduation this past May. Now, she is excited to meet our newest students and looks forward to advising the Class of 2029.

Dean Czesak can be reached at: deanoffirstyear@vassar.edu; maczesak@vassar.edu; or at (845) 437-5258.

Dean Czesak was slated to be the incoming advisor to the Class of 2028; with her new appointment, we are in the process of determining her replacement, and will send a follow-up email when that role has been filled. Members of the Class of 2028 who need to be in touch with a class advisor in the interim should please email dos@vassar.edu, and an advisor from the office will respond. We will keep you updated on new developments.

Thank you.

Tom Porcello
Dean of Studies and Professor of Anthropology
Vassar College