Colleagues,
I am pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Michael O’Leary as Associate Dean, Allied Health Division effective August 11, 2014.
By way of background, The School of Health Sciences (SHS) conducted a national search, and invited internal as well as external candidates to apply. Following that, interviews were conducted by a committee comprised of faculty, school administration, senior college administration, and human resources staff. The interview committee made the above-noted recommendation and was unanimous in its endorsement of Dr. O’Leary.
Dr. O’Leary brings considerable experience to the Associate Dean role having functioned in that capacity for two academic years, to date, in the School of Hospitality, Recreation, and Tourism (HRT). Prior to his appointment as Associate Dean in HRT, Dr. O’Leary was the Program Head for the jointly offered Kinesiology Program at the University of Guelph–Humber. In addition, Dr. O’Leary brings significant external partner relationships and an internationally recognized publication and presentation track record. Most recently, with Dr. O’Leary’s support and dedication, the SHS and HRT submitted a proposal to offer a collaborative degree program in the area of Workplace Wellness which was approved by theBoard of Governors in the Winter 2014 term.
Dr. O’Leary completed three Ontario Post-Secondary Health Sciences credentials. He has a baccalaureate, Masters, and a PhD from the Faculty of Health (School of Health Science) at York University. He is a lifelong learner and is steadfast in his commitment to continuous improvement in order to serve the organization to the best of his ability. Dr. O’Leary has attended the Academy for Advanced Leadership and has demonstrated significant leadership through his work on the various College-wide committees, as well as being named the United Way Campaign Co-Chair for 2014-15.
Dr. O’Leary’s research interests are grounded in human physiology. He has published in the American Journal of Cell Physiology, the Journal of Applied Physiology, and the Journal of Autophagy respectively.
Dr. O’Leary’s proven ability to lead successful academic programs in the Ontario Post-Secondary Sector (university and college), well established industry connections, and demonstrated capacity to complete high quality research will undoubtedly serve us well as we forge ahead towards Strengthening our Polytechnic Vision, Sustaining our Focus on Teaching and Learning, and Maximizing the Impact of Partnerships as outlined in Humber’s Strategic Plan.
Moreover, I would like to personally thank the interview committee members. They offered considerable support and expertise, as well as thoughtful analysis to this task. Finally, I want to acknowledge the unwavering support of Dean, Susan Somerville, (HRT) for supporting Dr. O’Leary’s transition to our School.
Please join me in welcoming Dr. O’Leary to his role effective August 11th, 2014.
Regards,
Jason Powell
Dean School of Health Sciences