Judy Ashcroft, dean of Continuing and Innovative Education (CIE) at The University of Texas at Austin, has resigned that position, effective Oct. 28, to become founding dean of the new University College at the University of South Florida in Tampa, Fla.
Ashcroft, who has worked at The University of Texas at Austin for more than 17 years, has been the university’s dean for CIE since 2007. CIE provides a wide range of courses, services and programs that encompass K-16 academics, online college and professional development courses, professional certificate programs and personal enrichment.
“Judy has served The University of Texas exceedingly well, and we will miss her,” said Steven Leslie, provost at The University of Texas at Austin.
Leslie said Linda Glessner, senior associate dean for CIE since 2007, has been appointed interim executive director, providing leadership as CIE transitions into a new organizational structure that more fully enhances and enriches the university’s mission.
He said Glessner has more than 20 years of corporate experience in product development, public outreach, strategic marketing, organizational planning and leadership development. She has been an accomplished adviser to industry, public schools, nonprofit volunteer organizations and higher education as an administrator and visiting faculty member. She also has extensive knowledge in the creation of self-sustaining continuing and professional education enterprises in national and global settings.
“I am delighted that Dr. Glessner has agreed to serve as interim executive director,” said Leslie. “Linda already has built strong partnerships with academic leaders on campus, and I look forward to working with her as we take our next steps with educational program development nationally and internationally.”
“The landscape of nontraditional students has changed and, by refocusing CIE, we can better support the university’s mission serving both domestic and global audiences and assisting the community in meeting its most pressing training needs,” said Glessner. “CIE’s integrated foundation of services and educational programs will also allow CIE to advise campus leaders on effective ways to address critical priorities for their students. It is an exciting time for us, and we look to the future with great expectation.”
