Former Graduate School Dean Mary Jo Finney, Ph.D., transitioned into a new role in November 2025, after nearly six years of exceptional leadership in the Graduate School. Dr. Colin McGill, Vice Provost for Faculty Success, has since stepped into the position of Interim Dean. The following letter was sent out via email in November by UAA Provost Denise Runge, and is republished here.

Following nearly six highly successful years focused on elevating and expanding the role of the Graduate School at UAA, Dr. Mary Jo Finney, Dean and Professor of Education, has decided to transition into a new role. Starting later this month and lasting the next several years, Mary Jo will move into the UAA School of Education, where she will help to revitalize, elevate and expand its Professional and Continuing Education unit (PACE). Mary Jo brings over two decades of experience in teacher development and leadership, with specific expertise in leadership development, literacy assessment and teacher identity. Her passion and skill in preparing and supporting educators at all levels will help PACE continue to serve the immediate and changing professional development needs of educators throughout Alaska.

Additionally, Mary Jo will continue to support the Graduate School as Senior Faculty Fellow, assisting with the transition and continuing some of her current responsibilities in support of graduate students, including her popular short courses and her teaching and mentoring roles within the Interdisciplinary program.

Given a variety of other leadership transitions, ongoing budgetary constraints and potential changes around practices such as recruitment and admissions, I have decided to appoint Vice Provost of Faculty Success Colin McGill as the Interim Dean of the Graduate School. Colin will assume these duties in addition to those of his current role. In consultation with the Graduate Academic Board and the Graduate Advisory Council, I will reassess the position next year before making any permanent decisions. I thank Colin for his willingness to step up in supporting graduate education at UAA.

Please join me in thanking Mary Jo Finney for her impactful and excellent service as Graduate School Dean since 2020 and in welcoming her into her new roles leading the PACE program and as Senior Faculty Fellow for Graduate Education. Please also join me in welcoming Colin McGill as Interim Dean of the Graduate School.