SHU Names New Assoc. Dean of Faculty Affairs for College of Health Professions

FAIRFIELD, Conn.—Sacred Heart University has promoted Stephanie “Stevie” Clines to associate dean of faculty affairs in the College of Health Professions (CHP). She is the director of SHU’s master’s in athletic training program.

Clines’ athletic training background includes experience with various collegiate, professional, Olympic and youth sports organizations. Her research interests involve examining personal, organizational and systemic influences on professional advancement and advocacy within athletic training. She serves as a peer reviewer for several academic journals that focus on athletic health care, and she is a certified mental health first aid instructor who strives to promote wellness and reduce mental health stigma.

In her new role, Clines will assist with the administration, promotion and evaluation of the CHP’s faculty. She will provide leadership to ensure the development and implementation of faculty policies and procedures related to the CHP’s academic programs and serve as an ambassador for the college, internally and externally.

Clines earned her bachelor’s degree in athletic training and her master’s degree in kinesiology from the University of Connecticut. She earned her doctorate in health services research from Old Dominion University in Virginia.

“Stevie is a talented academic who has been leading the athletic training program with professionalism and enthusiasm,” said Karen Daley, CHP interim dean. “Her academic expertise, blended with her ability to understand the faculty role, will be key in facilitating her success as an associate dean. She is already making valuable contributions to the dean’s office.”

Clines reflected on her new position in a question-and-answer session.

What interested you in becoming associate dean of faculty affairs?

I was drawn to this position by its dynamic and engaging nature. The associate dean of faculty affairs role encompasses a diverse array of duties, including personnel management, organizational tasks and academic responsibilities. It allows me to integrate my research interests in organizational and systemic influences on professional development with my daily responsibilities. Additionally, I have the privilege of advocating for the faculty and staff within the College of Health Professions, contributing to the enhancement of its reputation and success.

What are your goals for your new position?

I have a range of responsibilities designed to enhance faculty development, support and governance. My goals are to continue to foster a strong sense of community and collegiality among the faculty and staff, encourage and develop opportunities for professional growth and mentorship and be an effective liaison between faculty and administration.

How does an associate dean of faculty affairs benefit current and prospective CHP students?

The presence of an associate dean of faculty affairs signals that the college prioritizes and values faculty development and support. My role is to ensure that the faculty is well equipped to provide a high-quality education, which in turn benefits students by enhancing their learning experience and academic success.

About Sacred Heart University

As the second-largest Catholic university in New England, and one of the fastest-growing private doctoral institutions in the U.S., Sacred Heart University is a national leader in shaping higher education for the 21st century. SHU offers nearly 90 undergraduate, graduate, doctoral and certificate programs on its Fairfield, Conn., campus. Sacred Heart also has a campus in Dingle, Ireland, and offers online programs. More than 10,000 students attend the University’s eight colleges and schools: College of Arts & Sciences; School of Communication, Media & the Arts; School of Social Work; School of Computer Science & Engineering; College of Health Professions; the Isabelle Farrington College of Education & Human Development; the Jack Welch College of Business & Technology and the Dr. Susan L. Davis, R.N., & Richard J. Henley College of Nursing. Sacred Heart stands out from other Catholic institutions as it was established and led by laity. The contemporary Catholic university is rooted in the rich Catholic intellectual tradition and the liberal arts, and at the same time cultivates students to be forward thinkers who enact change—in their own lives, professions and in their communities. The Princeton Review includes SHU in its Best 389 Colleges: 2024 Edition, and Best Business Schools: 2024 Edition. Sacred Heart is home to the award-winning, NPR-affiliate station, WSHU Public Radio, a Division I athletics program and an impressive performing arts program that includes choir, band, dance and theatre. www.sacredheart.edu