Interim Spotlight: Dr. Karan Powell

Interim Vice President of Academic Affairs
Saint Francis University (Loretto, Pennsylvania)
June 2018 – May 2019

Could You Describe the Placement Process? How Did You Know This Assignment Would Be A Good Fit?

I felt called to return to service in advancing and transforming Catholic higher education and to serve at an institution where my leadership would contribute to making a difference for the campus. In preparing for the campus visit and interviews, I reviewed all of the documents I could find about SFU online as well as the materials provided by The Registry. I found that being direct with each campus interview group allowed me to begin to build connections, which enabled me to step onto the campus engaged from day one. 

What Is Something About the Institution That Has Impressed You Thus Far?

I am impressed by the President, Father Malachi Van Tassell, T.O.R., Ph.D. He has a strategic vision for the future of SFU and the courage to make the decisions that transformation requires. The President and the campus were ready for change, and within the first two months of my assignment we have created and begun to implement a plan together. I feel honored and blessed to have the opportunity to be of service to the President and the SFU community. 

What Strategies Are You Using To Tackle the Expectations List?

I listen, listen, listen, and then listen some more. When I propose actions for change, I look to cultivate buy-in from the President and the community so that they can own those decisions, which allows me to remain objective in proposing and evaluating solutions. Alongside the President and the marketing, advancement, and public relations teams I am building an implementing a comprehensive communication plan that is essential to restructuring the schools and departments within the university.