After more than three decades of service to the University in a variety of roles, Jerome DeSanto, Ed.D., has accepted the position of Executive Vice President at John Carroll University in Cleveland, Ohio. In his new role effective March 17, 2014, he will be responsible for overseeing such functions as information technology, planning, facilities, human resources, legal services and external properties.  He will also serve as Secretary and Chief Liaison to John Carroll’s Board of Trustees.

A bachelor’s and master’s graduate from Scranton, Dr. DeSanto joined the University staff in 1979 as a programmer/analyst. Over the years, he held increasingly responsible positions before being appointed Vice President for Planning/CIO in 2004. 

During his tenure, Dr. DeSanto guided the emergence of our information technology resources and capabilities into an area of excellence. Among his key accomplishments are implementing the campus network, overseeing the launch of our first website and learning management system, championing the introduction of mediated classrooms, and implementing centralized budgeting for campus information technology. He successfully shepherded the development of two strategic plans, and was instrumental in the design of the current governance system, launch of the Staff Senate and implementation and operation of the University Governance Council. Finally, he has chaired numerous committees and position searches, and taught as an adjunct professor in the Kania School of Management for more than two decades.

I want to offer my heartfelt congratulations to Dr. DeSanto as he prepares to take on new responsibilities at a sister Jesuit institution. On behalf of the University, I am grateful to Jerry for his dedicated service to the University these past 34 years and for his many contributions as a member of the President’s Cabinet. 

For the immediate future, Robyn Dickinson, Associate Vice President Information Resources & Deputy CIO, has agreed to assume leadership responsibility for the division as Interim Vice President for Planning/CIO. The position will continue to report to Edward Steinmetz, Senior Vice President for Finance and Administration.  Additionally, Gary Olsen, Vice President for University Advancement, has agreed to assume Dr. DeSanto’s role as chair of the Search Committee for the Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs/Provost. I thank Robyn and Gary for their willingness to serve the University by taking on these added responsibilities.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.