Here's to new beginnings! FUS President Samuel Martín-Barbero has announced the addition of two key administrators who will be invaluable to Franklin's day-to-day operations and overall progress. First up is David Mills, who has been named Dean of Academic Affairs after an extensive search. Dr. Mills comes to us from Champlain College of Burlington, Vermont, USA, where he was Dean of International Education, Dean of the Core Division, and Professor of Interdisciplinary Studies. He earned a Ph.D. in Philosophy from The Pennsylvania State University (Penn State). During his recent visit, Dr. Mills demonstrated his management capacity, keen understanding of liberal arts education, and a solid commitment to an equitable, collaborative, and inclusive university community. We believe his interdisciplinary scholarship, curricular development, and wisdom gained during two decades as an academic leader will serve him well at Franklin. We welcome Dr. Mills and his wife, Rebecca, for the new academic year.
Next, we invite Nickolas Neibauer back to campus as the new Director of Advancement and Alumni. Mr. Neibauer is a graduate of Franklin (Class of 2005) with a Bachelor of Arts in Business and Italian and a Master of Arts in Economics and Communication from Università della Svizzera Italiana (USI). Having served as a Donor Relations Specialist for the United Nations Children's Fund in Jordan, he brings relevant expertise and innovative ideas in international and cross-cultural fundraising. As a proud and connected graduate, he also brings his energetic alumni engagement to Franklin and his deep commitment and understanding of our institutional mission. Mr. Neibauer is joined by his wife, Natalie Al Naber, also a Franklin alumna.
Dr. Mills and Mr. Neibauer will undoubtedly contribute to consolidating our work environment, academic innovation, and global outreach (fundamental pillars of our Three Vs: Values, Visibility, and Viability). We look forward to the fall semester when the entire Franklin community will have a chance to meet and interact with these two highly accomplished professionals. Welcome to campus, Dr. Mills and Mr. Neibauer!