06
May
2022
|
15:05 PM
America/New_York

Mary Stromberger to serve as Ohio State’s vice provost and dean for graduate education

Former Colorado State University dean will oversee 11,000 graduate students

Mary StrombergerMary Stromberger has been appointed vice provost and dean for graduate education at The Ohio State University. Stromberger joins the Ohio State community from Colorado State University (CSU), where she currently serves as vice provost for graduate affairs and dean of the graduate school.

“In becoming vice provost and dean for graduate education at Ohio State, Mary will lead our Graduate School, which supports more than 11,000 students enrolled in master’s and doctoral programs,” said Executive Vice President and Provost Melissa L. Gilliam. “She is a leader who holds a student-centric vision for graduate education and believes that a thriving graduate school is one that mentors students, advances belonging, strengthens relationships and bolsters collaboration across the university.”

At CSU, Stromberger supports over 6,000 graduate students in all aspects of graduate education, research, teaching and well-being. She champions student support and inclusion, establishing CSU’s Graduate Center for Inclusive Mentoring, which provides mentor training to faculty and students, hosts social activities, and supports recruitment and retention of students from underserved populations.

“Among other achievements, Mary has grown professional doctorate and PhD programs, increased support of graduate interdisciplinary programs, and updated policies and procedures that have improved student experience and staff culture,” Gilliam said.

Prior to her role as CSU’s vice provost and dean, she served as associate dean of the Graduate School and chair of the university’s Faculty Council. She joined CSU in 2001 and is a tenured faculty member in the university’s Department of Soil and Crop Sciences. Stromberger is internationally recognized for her research on plant-root microbiomes, soil ecosystems and soil health.

Stromberger earned her bachelor’s degree in biology and microbiology at West Chester University, her master’s degree in soil science at the University of Delaware and her PhD in soil science at Oregon State University.

Gilliam thanked Alicia Bertone, who has served as dean of the Graduate School since 2018.

“Alicia has had many accomplishments including enhancing graduate student services, advocating for increased financial support for graduate students, launching a task force on postdoctoral affairs, and adapting programming to provide support and flexibility to students during the pandemic,” she said.  “I am grateful for Alicia’s service to our graduate students and Ohio State.”

Stromberger will also hold the ENGIE-Axium Endowed Chair, and her appointment will be effective August 1, 2022, through June 30, 2027, pending approval by the Board of Trustees.

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