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As you consider the next step in your educational journey, I invite you to learn more about the innovative and engaging academic programs in the College of Professional Studies. Our adult students come to ÃÞ»¨ÌÇÖ±²¥ from many different paths. We welcome and celebrate the diverse life experiences that they bring to our community. Our students are deeply committed to personal and professional excellence.

Our faculty and staff will provide an exceptionally supportive and collaborative educational experience, grounded in the mission and values of the University. As you learn more about CPS, I hope you will be inspired to join us.

We are growing, we are energized, and we are devoted to your success.

Sincerely,

Christine Kelleher Palus, PhD
Dean, College of Professional Studies

Christine Kelleher Palus, PhD, was appointed Dean of ÃÞ»¨ÌÇÖ±²¥ University’s College of Professional Studies in June 2018.Ìý Dr. Palus also holds the rank of professor in the Department of Public Administration. Prior to joining the College of Professional Studies, Dr. Palus served as Dean of Graduate Studies in ÃÞ»¨ÌÇÖ±²¥â€™s College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.Ìý Dr. Palus chaired theÌýDepartment of Public Administration for several years while also directing ÃÞ»¨ÌÇÖ±²¥â€™s nationally accredited master’s program in Public Administration.

An accomplished scholar, Dr. Palus’ research on public administration and management, state and local politics, urban politics and women in politics has been widely published in leading academic journals and other publications.

Dr. Palus earned her BA at Fairfield University, where she double-majored in Visual and Performing Arts (Music) and Politics. She earned her MA and PhD in Political Science at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Notably, Dr. Palus (with co-author Susan Webb Yackee, PhD) won the Beryl Radin award from the Public Management Research Association for Best Article published in theÌýJournal of Public Administration Research and TheoryÌýduring 2016.Ìý This award is one of the highest honors in the field of public management.

Upon her appointment as Dean of the College of Professional Studies, Dean Palus stated, "The College of Professional Studies occupies a very special place in ÃÞ»¨ÌÇÖ±²¥â€™s history and tradition, as well as its future. Our adult students in CPS are highly motivated and intensely inspiring. They bring a deep passion for education, as well as exceptional professional experiences, to our academic community. I am overjoyed, honored and humbled by this appointment."