From the Provost re: Interim Dean, College of Education

January 3, 2024

Dear Southern Colleagues, 

As you know, Dr. Stephen Hegedus, Dean of our College of Education, has accepted the position of Interim Provost at Western Connecticut State University.   I am glad to announce that Dr. Kari Sassu, Director of our Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning has agreed to serve as our interim dean of the College. 

Kari is a deeply respected member of our Department of Counseling and School Psychology. She has disciplinary expertise in creating strategies to intervene in and prevent problematic behaviors in students, the impact of anti-bullying legislation, and gender differences in aggressive behaviors.   Kari has also served as the Director of Strategic Initiatives for our Center of Excellence on Autism Spectrum Disorders.  She serves on various boards, including the Autism Spectrum Disorders Advisory Council for the state's Department of Social Services.   

Dr. Sassu holds a baccalaureate and a master's degree in Psychological Services from the University of Pennsylvania, a master's and sixth year professional diploma in School Psychology from the University of Connecticut, a sixth-year professional diploma in Educational Leadership from Southern Connecticut State University, and a doctorate from the University of Connecticut in Educational Psychology.  Kari is a nationally certified school psychologist with certifications as a Connecticut school psychologist and school administrator.

I know that all of you will join me in welcoming and supporting Dr. Sassu to this new position as well as wishing Dr. Hegedus the very best in his new role at Western.

Robert S. Prezant, PhD
Provost and VPAA