Linfield University recently added three new associate deans to help run operations in its College of Arts and Sciences and School of Business.
Associate Professor Gennie VanBeek is the associate dean for the College of Arts and Sciences. Van Beek has been with Linfield since 2008, teaching courses in the Department of Education. Her research examines students at the margins in public education and making schools more equitable. Her new role includes collaborating with other campus units to gather and interpret data and formulate action plans, related to student recruitment and student success.
“I am passionate about preparing students who are critical thinkers and leaders,” VanBeek said. “Meeting the needs of students and doing my best to help them be successful in their goals has been incredibly rewarding during my time at Linfield.”
Denise Farag, associate professor of business law, is the associate dean for graduate programs and new initiatives in the School of Business. Alongside Dean Jennifer Madden, Farag was instrumental in launching Linfield’s new Master of Science in business and is spearheading an effort to create an online degree completion program that reduces barriers for students with previous college credits to graduate.
“I am passionate about creating new pathways and opportunities for students,” Farag said.
A former attorney, Farag’s academic interests include tax law, laws impacting small businesses and nonprofit/exempt organizations and sports law.
Associate Professor of Business Virlena Crosley is the associate dean for undergraduate programs in the School of Business and will continue the responsibilities of a chair. Crosley is a longtime teacher of business courses at Linfield. She previously held executive and management positions with the State of Oregon, the last of which was director of the Oregon Employment Department.
“I feel fortunate to work with my wonderful colleagues in the School of Business and across campus as we work together to accomplish common goals and create and deliver relevant courses and programs for students,” Crosley said.
Her academic interests include entrepreneurship, sustainability, and business strategy.
