Dr. Bruce Kramer is the new dean of the College of Applied Professional Studies at the University of St. Thomas, it was announced by Dr. Susan Huber, the university's executive vice president and chief academic officer.
The College of Applied Professional Studies, based in Opus Hall on St. Thomas' downtown Minneapolis campus, is home to the university's School of Education and Graduate School of Professional Psychology.
Kramer has been a member of St. Thomas' education faculty for the past 13 years and has held a number of administrative posts. He chaired the School of Education's Department of Leadership, Policy and Administration from 2003 to 2006 and was associate dean of the School of Education from 2006 to 2008. He has served as interim dean of the College of Applied Professional Studies since May 2008. At that time he replaced Huber, who went on to become the university’s executive vice president and chief academic officer.
The university conducted a national search for a permanent dean and Kramer was one of three finalists interviewed for the position this fall.
"Dr. Kramer has an excellent background for his new position as dean," Huber said. "He has substantial experience as both an educator and administrator. His well-grounded understanding of the university’s mission and compelling vision for leadership for the College of Applied Professional Studies is exactly what is needed to move the college forward. His fellow deans and I look forward to the vitality he brings to the Deans’ Council and to working collaboratively with him."
Kramer, of Minneapolis, received his doctorate in foundations and administration from Purdue University in 1993. He also holds a bachelor of science in psychology and music education, and a master's in vocal performance, from Ball State University.
Before coming to St. Thomas he was a principal at international high schools in Thailand, Egypt and Norway, and taught music and psychology at schools in Indiana. An active member of the American Educational Research Association, he has authored or co-authored 30 papers dealing with educational leadership.
As interim dean, Kramer guided the School of Education through its reaccreditation with the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education during the past year. The reaccreditation was approved by the council in May.
Kramer's appointment as dean is effective immediately.