Academic Deans
Senior Associate Academic Dean
Marianne Pierce is the Senior Associate Academic Dean. She joined the Furman faculty in 1997, and has served as director of Undergraduate Research and Internships for the past six years. Prior to coming to Furman, she was director of graduate (MBA) programs and executive education programs at Wake Forest University.
During her time at Furman, she has served as interim director of the Center for Teaching Learning, director of the Brussels Internship Study Away program, and chair of the Individualized Curriculum Program. She holds B.A. and M.A. degrees from West Virginia University, and a Ph.D. from the University of Georgia.
“Marianne’s extensive experience in the academic life of Furman has earned her a reputation as a knowledgeable advocate for the liberal arts, an effective manager of programs and projects, and a valuable collaborator,” said John Beckford, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean. “She has consistently provided valuable leadership to every assignment. Her exceptional analytical and interpersonal skills will serve her well in this new position.”
The Senior Associate Academic Dean position was created at the recommendation of the Academic Affairs Administration Reorganization Task Force appointed by Beckford last year. The position will oversee 12 academic support areas such as Continuing Education, Libraries, Undergraduate Research and Internships, the Shi Center for Sustainability, and the other Assistant and Associate Deans in Academic Affairs. In addition, Dr. Pierce will oversee interdisciplinary programs and the First Year Seminars.
Dr. Marianne Pierce
Senior Associate Academic Dean
Administration Building 204
(864) 294-2269
(864) 294-3584 fax |
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Associate Academic Dean
Paula Gabbert is the Associate Academic Dean and Professor of Computer Science.
She earned her BA in Computer Science/Management from Goucher College, Baltimore MD and her MS and PhD degrees in Systems Engineering from the University of Virginia.
She joined the Department of Computer Science in 1996 and was appointed Associate Academic Dean in June 2009.
As Associate Academic Dean, Dr. Gabbert ensures that academic regulations are followed, manages students on academic probation, oversees cases involving violations of academic integrity and appeals of academic regulations, and assists faculty, students, and parents with concerns about academic issues.
She also supervises the Assistant Academic Dean, the Disability Services Office, and the Office of Academic Assistance.
She continues to teach one class a year in the Computer Science Department.
Dr. Paula Gabbert
Associate Academic Dean
Administration Building 206
(864) 294-2064
(864) 294-3584 fax |
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Assistant Academic Dean
Lesley A. Quast is the Assistant Academic Dean for Advising. She has the primary responsibility for administration and implementation of the academic advising program, additionally works with students who are experiencing academic difficulties compounded by other life factors, and is the academic liaison to the Engaged Living Program. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from St. Andrews Presbyterian College, Master of Education in Emotional Disturbance from Virginia Commonwealth University, and Doctorate of Education in Learning Disabilities with a minor in Administration and Supervision from the University of Alabama. After joining the faculty in 1976, Dr Quast has spent her entire post-doctoral career at Furman University. Prior to her appointment as Assistant Academic Dean, Dr. Quast served as Director of University/School Partnerships, coordinator of NCATE accreditation, and chair of the Education Department. She has been a member of numerous university committees, among the most recent are the Faculty Governance Task Force, the Implementation Task Force for the new curriculum, Student Life Strategic Planning Committee, the Task Force on the Student Experience, the First Year Experience Committee, and Co-Chair of the Furman University Diversity Committee. Dr. Quast continues to teach a course in Diverse School Cultures as part of the senior block for elementary majors at Furman. In her spare time she enjoys reading, listening to music, hiking or walking, writing poetry, and small-sized organic gardening.
Dr. Lesley Quast
Assistant Academic Dean
Administration Building 206
(864) 294-2064
(864) 294-3584 fax
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Administrative Assistants