Two new deans named at San Francisco State University

SAN FRANCISCO -- (August 17, 2018) – Sophie Clavier has been named dean of Graduate Studies at San Francisco State University effective July 1, while Lori Beth Way was appointed dean of undergraduate education and academic planning effective June 1.

During her 22 years at the University, Dean Clavier has served in many roles: from graduate student (with an M.A. in international relations) to graduate coordinator; from award-winning professor to associate dean in Faculty Affairs; and from department chair to associate dean in the College of Liberal and Creative Arts. “Dean Clavier’s experience anchors her commitment to the University's core mission of academic excellence and educational equity, particularly in the critical area of graduate studies,” said Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs Jennifer Summit.

“I am looking forward to continuing the great work of the Division of Graduate Studies and to making SF State the destination of choice for current professionals wanting more development, students looking for the skills needed for a new career or anyone in search of personal enrichment,” said Clavier. “I want new grad students to feel valued, supported and free to explore new ideas, new paradigms and new relationships.”

Lori Beth Way will now serve as San Francisco State’s dean of undergraduate education and academic planning, a role she has filled in an interim capacity for nearly two years. She joined SF State in 2015 as associate dean of academic planning after serving as senior advisor for undergraduate education at Emerson College and in leadership roles at Chico State, where she was a full professor in the political science department.

“Dean Way brings to her position a powerful commitment to the success of students, faculty and staff — along with a keen appreciation of the interconnectedness of all three,” said Provost Summit.

“I’m excited to be working with students, faculty, staff and administrators to increase student retention and graduation rates for all students,” said Way. “Our campus student success plan is an ambitious framework to support students for rigorous academic work that will prepare them both for exemplary personal and professional lives after graduation. SF State helps prepare students to give back to their families and communities while pursuing their passion.”

###

San Francisco State University is a doctoral public university serving students from the San Francisco Bay Area, across California and beyond, with nationally acclaimed programs that span a broad range of disciplines. Nearly 30,000 students enroll at the University each year, and its more than 249,000 graduates have contributed to the economic, cultural and civic fabric of San Francisco, the nation and the world. Through them — and more than 1,700 world-class faculty members — SF State proudly embraces its legacy of academic excellence, community engagement and commitment to social justice. For more information, visit sfsu.edu.