Gasser accepts new position at Michigan State
University of Idaho Director of Housing Ray Gasser accepted the position of Senior Associate Director of Residential Life and Housing Services at Michigan State University Jan. 2.
“It’s bittersweet, we’ve accomplished a lot in the five years that I’ve been here,” Gasser said. “I’ve grown to really love the people here and the work we’ve been doing.”
Gasser said his last day at UI will be Jan. 29 and he will start his new job Feb. 4. UI Dean of Students Bruce Pitman said Associate Director of Housing Dee Dee Kanikkeberg will serve as interim director of housing.
With more than 15,000 beds in its housing system, Gasser said Michigan State is the largest housing program in the country and his new job is a prestigious opportunity he couldn’t pass up.
“I think it speaks highly of the University of Idaho that it continues to produce professionals that are sought out by bigger institutions,” he said.
Gasser said the housing department made a lot of progress during his time at UI, including the Wallace Complex renovations, and he is focusing on leaving the department in a position to continue moving forward in his absence.
Joyce appointed UI College of Science dean
Paul Joyce was appointed dean of the University of Idaho College of Science Wednesday. Joyce had served as the interim dean since June.
Joyce said as dean he is committed to changing the role and visibility of the faculty, raising awareness for the college’s research and outreach efforts.
“And continuing to build and foster a culture of optimism, trust and innovation,” Joyce said.
Joyce has been at UI since 1991 when he joined as an assistant professor, being promoted over the years to full professor in 2001.
Provost Doug Baker said Joyce’s work with the Institute for Bioinformatics and Evolutionary Studies his time spent as chair of the Faculty Senate have shown he will be an effective and trusted leader.
“He knows the university well and I am confident that he will collaboratively build teaching, research and outreach successes,” Baker said.