After replacing former College Dean Jane McAuliffe last July, Interim Dean Chester Gillis was named dean of the College by University President John J. DeGioia tonight.

In an e-mail sent out to the Georgetown community, DeGioia said that after consulting with Provost James O’Donnell he decided to name Gillis as the new dean. According to the e-mail, Gillis assumes this role immediately. DeGioia also thanked the search committee, which was led by John McNeill, a professor in the Edmund A. Walsh School of Foreign Service.

Gillis began at Georgetown as a theology professor in 1988 and served as chair of the department of the theology from 2001 to 2006. He then served as director of the liberal studies program from 2006 to 2008.

“We will have a number of opportunities to celebrate Dean Gillis’ accomplishments and his new role in the months ahead,” DeGioia said in the announcement. “I very much look forward to our continued work together and the dynamic leadership he will bring to the College.”

O’Donnell agreed that Gillis is the right one to fill this position.

“Dean Gillis brings scholarly distinction, long service in the College and university, good judgment and a deep commitment to the university and its mission,” O’Donnell said. “He’s the right man in the right place at the right time.”

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