Sanjana Priyonti
Executive Editor
Even in full regalia, amid a Latin-language installation ceremony as Sewanee’s Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, Dean Jennifer Cooley couldn’t contain her playfulness.
As the faculty processed into All Saints’ Chapel, Cooley posed for University photographer Buck Butler with a fun-loving grin. And during the ceremony, she beamed as the Vice Chancellor asked her family to stand and be recognized. It was as clear then as it has been since she arrived that Cooley thinks her work should involve having fun.
Cooley arrived on the Mountain last July, taking on responsibilities as the Dean of the College and immersing herself in Sewanee’s culture. She was officially installed as the Dean of the College and Vice-Provost during the Easter Convocation. Following the Convocation, there was a reception at Chen Hall to commemorate the momentous occasion. Her family, faculty, staff and students came in support to make the occasion special.
Vice-Chancellor Pearigen shared that he is impressed with her work and the progress she has made in the college. When talking about Cooley’s vision for Sewanee +100, Pearigen said, “Her signature developing program Sewanee +100 will show how we, as an institution, are impacting that 100-mile radius. It’s really exciting to see the number of ways our faculty are connected to this, not only the Sewanee community, but the surrounding region.”
The welcoming community of Sewanee and the enthusiastic and supportive faculty paved the way for her to bring in fresh ideas and also embrace the strategic plans of the University. Pearigen said, “I think Jenny’s doing a great job. Really, very happy to have her here.”