Dean of the College

Dean of the College Suzy Nelson and her division support Colgate’s living/learning goals. The division is dedicated to enhancing the student experience through the purposeful integration of the curriculum and co-curriculum.

Social Hosting Process Update

In response to students’ request that Colgate revise its social hosting process to allow for greater ease in gathering with friends, a committee of students, faculty and staff was convened to modify our process. Proposed changes have been shared widely in campus fora and thanks to much student input, an improved process will be implemented in fall 2013.

The new social hosting process aims to balance students’ rights with responsibilities. Further, it offers reasonable expectations for safe service of alcohol at social gatherings. Highlights of the proposed changes to the current process may be found here.

Warm regards,
Suzy M. Nelson, dean of the college

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Dean of the College Mission Statement

Student learning begins with a rich and varied educational experience that integrates the formal academic program with all of campus life. Colgate students will develop habits of learning that are characteristic of a residential liberal arts education and that are guided by six principles: intellectualism, citizenship, accountability, access and inclusion, personal growth and wellness, and a lifelong connection to Colgate. The Dean of the College division promotes open and civil exchange of ideas and perspectives, deepening our commitment to human understanding and to contributing to the common good. The division furthers Colgate’s educational mission through its high quality professionalism, services, and educational programs.

Statement on Diversity

The Dean of the College recognizes and appreciates the unique talents and contributions of each individual with whom we work. The division encourages ongoing diversity education and expects our staff to approach this endeavor with a sense of open-mindedness and willingness to experience the unfamiliar with respectful communication. We facilitate exploration, learning, and understanding of identity development and social justice issues, resulting in an inclusive and supportive community where each voice is heard and valued.

Guiding Principles

We will:

• Partner with students to help them mature into successful and independent adults.  
• Exhibit professionalism, collegiality, and a student-centered approach to our work as educators.
• Respect and support each other, as well as the students, faculty, staff, and alumni with whom we work.
• Collaborate and communicate effectively in furthering our shared goals.
• Create and cultivate community within and outside of the DoC division.
• Place a high value on continued professional growth and development as we work toward excellence.
• Evaluate our work as a division, make adjustments as needed, and celebrate our accomplishments. 

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Programs

As a residential college steeped in a liberal arts tradition that embraces a diversity of people, perspectives, and experiences, Colgate believes that student learning, while centered on the formal academic program, extends through all out-of-class experiences.

The DoC staff facilitates the development of students’ intellectual, emotional, spiritual, physical, and social capacities in their pursuit to become contributing citizens of a rapidly changing world.

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Student Drop–in Hour

Suzy Nelson, dean of the college, and Scott Brown, dean of students, invite you to stop by during their open-door hour. *(when available; please refer to online calendar)

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