Community College of Philadelphia

05/17/2023 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 05/17/2023 12:06

Community College of Philadelphia Names Brad Kovaleski, Ph.D., as Dean of Students

May 10, 2023
Contact:
Megan Lello
Email: [email protected]

Spending almost 20 years in higher education, Dr. Kovaleski brings extensive experience supporting student success

PHILADELPHIA - Dr. Brad Kovaleski has been named Dean of Students at Community College of Philadelphia, previously serving as the Senior Student Affairs officer and director of Student Affairs at Penn State University's Brandywine campus.

"I am excited to welcome Dr. Kovaleski to the College. His expertise, dedication, and commitment will help us continue to provide the activities and events that support and educate our students. Dr. Kovaleski looks forward to serving our talented students and collaborating with staff to support their needs," said Dr. Donald Guy Generals, president of Community College of Philadelphia.

At the College, the Dean of Students is responsible for providing leadership, strategic direction, assessment and management of programs and services that enhance the overall quality of student life and student success, including development and retention. The Dean of Students is directly responsible for Athletics, Counseling, Discipline and Student Judicial Affairs, grant-funded initiatives, Student Activities, Student Success Initiatives, Career Connections, the Women's Outreach and Advocacy Center, the Office of Collegiate Recovery, as well as student leadership development and orientation.

At Brandywine, Dr. Kovaleski was a member of the chancellor's senior leadership team and provided leadership and management for all student affairs units, which includes student engagement and leadership, residence life, counseling and health services, athletics, and student conduct. He also led and supported efforts related to diversity, equity and inclusion; behavioral threat management and early intervention; and collaborating with student affairs colleagues and leaders across Penn State and all Commonwealth campuses to provide a safe and welcoming environment for all students.

Throughout his career, Dr. Kovaleski has implemented the use of data metrics and learning outcomes in programs and services to increase student engagement and raise the quality of student learning experiences, all with the goal of offering successful programs that advance institutional objectives. He brings a strong understanding of student development theory and current trends and best practices in education. His past positions include director of Student Involvement and Leadership, and executive director of Student Development at Slippery Rock University and assistant dean of Students, and director of Student Activities and Orientation at Franklin & Marshall College.

"I am deeply appreciative of the opportunity to join Community College of Philadelphia. As I step into this new leadership role, there are three key things that I will prioritize above all else: that I am present, visible, and approachable. I hope all members of the campus community feel comfortable coming to me with their questions, ideas, excitement, and concerns," said Dr. Kovaleski. "Ultimately, I hope to lead and facilitate a team that will improve the lives of our students and help build a stronger institution. The lens by which I view my work is focused on meeting the needs of those we ultimately serve, the students. I genuinely care about the development of students and am both passionate about, and committed to, the service of education."

Dr. Kovaleski earned a doctorate in Organizational Learning and Leadership from Gannon University in Erie, and a bachelor's degree in Spanish and a master's degree in College Student Personnel from Slippery Rock University.

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