DR. STEVEN A. SEARS PROMOTED TO VICE PRESIDENT OF STUDENT AFFAIRS AND DEAN OF STUDENTS
PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND DECEMBER 15, 2020 – Providence College (PC) has announced the promotion of Dr. Steven A. Sears to the position of vice president for student affairs and dean of students. Dr. Sears has served as interim vice president since July 1 of this year. Previously, he was associate vice president and dean of students. The College has redefined the vice president’s position to include responsibilities as both vice president for the Student Affairs Division, as well as serving as dean of students.
Since joining the PC staff in 1998 as associate director for housing and discipline, Dr. Sears has served the College in a number of key administrative positions, including as dean of residence life (2005-2010); dean of students (2010-2011); interim vice president for student affairs (2011-2012); and associate vice president for student affairs/dean of students (2012 – June 2020).
“Throughout his tenure, Dr. Sears has demonstrated his unwavering commitment to our students and their well-being. He has been invaluable in his efforts to promote diversity and inclusion, and was instrumental in the creation of the Balfour Office of Multicultural Student Activities, which engaged students and student leaders in diversity awareness and cultural immersion through innovative training and program offerings,” said PC President Rev. Kenneth R. Sicard, O.P.
A U.S. Air Force veteran, Dr. Sears also serves as a co-chair of PC’s Continuity Task Force (CTF) which has been responsible for the development of an overarching plan and accompanying recommendations for the College’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. During this unprecedented time, Dr. Sears’ leadership skills, compassionate care for students, and collaborative approach to problem solving have been demonstrated on a 24/7 basis.
Dr. Sears holds a doctorate in higher education from NOVA Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, FLA; a Master of Business Administration degree from Salve Regina University, Newport, RI; and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Social Science from Roger Williams University. A native of Bristol, RI, he and his family now reside in Seekonk, MA.
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