MU | N e w s
Michael Slavkin
Michael Slavkin becomes associate dean for
academic affairs this summer. An associate
professor, he’ll continue as director of teacher
education.
What does an associate dean for
academic affairs do?
I’ll work with the Office of Academic Affairs
to support curriculum, instruction and
assessment. I’ll help faculty explore new ways
to evaluate learning, and I’ll seek grants and
funding that support student learning and
special projects on campus.
What about your other roles?
I will continue teaching special education
courses and working with student teachers
during their clinical experiences. I’ll also start
teaching our introductory course, Exploring
Teaching and Learning. I get to see our
students as they begin and complete their
programs, which is a great way for me to
reflect on their work.
What do you like best about working
at Manchester?
I love the people I work with. Manchester is
so welcoming and supportive. It truly is an
amazing place to learn and to work!
What’s your best advice for
Manchester students?
Love what you do. So often I see our students
working themselves silly. I see them working
on their coursework, working with campus
jobs, pushing themselves to do more, more,
more. I sometimes want to say, “Hey, come sit
and slow down!” I want them to take the time
to read, to think, to learn, and to grow.
Your education:
B.A. in psychology and elementary
education from DePauw University, Master
of Education and Counseling Education
from Saint Louis University, and Ph.D.
in Educational Psychology from Indiana
University.
What’s your best memory as a college
student?
Late-night conversations with friends. We
talked about everything. Those conversations
could last well into the morning hours, but
were some of the ways that I learned about
who I am and what I believe. My peers taught