This message is posted on behalf of Interim Vice President of Academic & Student Affairs, David Hallett 

Dear Academic and Student Affairs,

As a follow up to the March 28th message from Jessica Howard regarding organizational changes at the executive level of the college, I wanted to connect with you all as well.

Years ago, I stepped out of my role as the Executive Dean of General Education at Chemeketa and began serving the college as the Vice President of Governance and Administration. Prior to my Executive Dean position, I served Chemeketa as Dean of Social Sciences, Education, Human Services and Business for several years and also as a faculty member at other colleges teaching a variety of law classes. In my Vice President of Governance and Administration role in particular, I feel like I have grown a great deal, as a person, as a professional and as an individual that cares deeply about our shared work at Chemeketa. I’ve always been a relational person, believing that my best work is being done in real time with whomever I’m interacting with at any given moment.  I never imagined that I would be coming back full circle to join the Academic and Student Affairs division as the interim Vice President.  It is with a humble spirit and caring heart that I enter into this new role.

While I’m still processing what my service to each of you will need to include, I have already identified a few priorities that are important to me.  These include reengaging with the important work that you do for our students and learning what your needs are, as well as the needs of our students.  Beyond needs, however, I am interested in learning about the hopes and desires you have for your work, and for our collective work with students, and with our college community.   What motivates you and gives you joy?  Through this appreciative inquiry, I believe we can collectively move forward in a way that respects everyone, builds trust, and serves our students in the best possible manner.

I am looking forward to seeing you, learning from you and working for you in my new role.  Soon I will set about finding ways to get more involved, through a series of listen and learn meetings that will bring me in touch with your work.  Thank you for the kindness and grace you’ve already extended to me.  Please reach out to me at any time if you have thoughts or questions you’d like to share.

Yours,

David