We are pleased to welcome...

Engaging. Enthusiastic. Energetic...words that perfectly describe Joan M. Herbers, seventh dean of the College of Biological Sciences.

Dean Joan M. Herbers

First and foremost a working biologist, Herbers intends to maintain an active research program-- she studies a species of "slave-making" ant-and hopes to get back into the classroom within the year, because "thinking about new ways to teach students," is a consuming interest.

Herbers brings extensive experience to the deanship at Ohio State, garnered at two other noted public institutions: the University of Vermont and Colorado State University, where she served as Biology Department Chair for nine years. At Colorado State, Herbers was known as a team-builder and facilitator, providing leadership for several key initiatives.

Herbers' primary mission is to build on its many existing strengths to take the College of Biological Sciences to new levels of excellence. "The College has a world-class faculty, which gives us great opportunities for recruiting outstanding new faculty. The research engine is central to the College and is tightly linked to graduate education. Undergraduate research is value-added, not just for the undergraduates, but for faculty and graduate students who are energized by having these young people in their labs. Our Introductory Biology Program, headed by Professor Steve Rissing, is a star program.

"I believe there are opportunities to grow in all areas. Moving into the new Aronoff Building and the subsequent renovation of Jennings Hall will be a huge shot in the arm for the College and for our faculty and students."

Herbers is guided by a solid set of core values: Honesty. Hard Work. Valuing People. She is confident that those values are reflected in the environment at Ohio State.

"I am impressed with the way Ohio State treats its people-Ohio State is ahead of the curve."