Malin Pereira, professor of English and recent department chair, is now executive director of the Honors College.
Cynthia Wolf Johnson, associate provost for academic services, said Pereira’s “scholarly work; passion for teaching, mentoring and research; and innovative, energetic and collaborative approach, will serve her well in this very important position.”
Pereira, who assumed the position Aug. 1, has extensive administrative experience, including chair of the English Department from 2007-12, interim chair of the Africana Studies Department (2006-07) and undergraduate coordinator in the English Department (1999-2003).
A graduate of the University of Wisconsin - Madison, Pereira completed a bachelor’s degree with distinction in English and psychology. Her master’s in English and Ph.D. in English with a minor in Afro-American studies also are from the University of Wisconsin - Madison.
Johnson said that under Pereira’s leadership, the Honors College would continue to play a significant role in the recruitment and retention of highly qualified students at the University as well as the recruitment of undergraduates to honors education opportunities.
The Honors College serves as an umbrella organization for college and departmental honors programs, as well as the University Honors Program. It is responsible for coordinating honors-in-residence and common enrichment experiences for students enrolled in these programs. Other key roles include pre-professional advising in health sciences; early identification and cultivation of students for national scholarships and awards; administration of honors, such as graduation certification; and operations with the University Honors Council. The scope of the Honors College will expand to include coordination of University-wide recognition of academic achievement and additional advisory council(s).