YSU Will Conduct Searches to Replace 2 Deans

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – Youngstown State University will be searching for two new deans as one retires and a second leaves for a position at another university.

Jennifer Pintar, provost and vice president of academic affairs, sent notification Friday to the campus that Jeffery Allen, dean of the Bitonte College of Health and Human Services, had retired and Kelly Wilkinson, dean of the Williamson College of Business Administration, is leaving for another position.

Wilkinson, whose last day will be in mid-July, has accepted a role at the School of Business and Economics at Indiana University-East. She started at YSU in 2022.

“I am happy to announce that Betty Jo Licata, retired dean of WCBA, has agreed to return to YSU to serve as interim dean,” Pintar wrote in the email to campus. “Betty Jo retired from YSU in 2021 after more than 26 years as dean of WCBA. As dean, she led the effort to gain accreditation by AACSB International, the world’s premier accrediting agency for business schools, and spearheaded planning and construction of Williamson Hall.”

Under Licata’s leadership, the college established its Center for Nonprofit Leadership, Entrepreneurship Center, Center for Career Management, Student Services Center, Business Leaders Program and Student Leadership Council. Her term as interim dean starts July 15.

Allen’s last day at YSU was June 12.

Sara Michaliszyn, interim dean at Bitonte since 2021, will be the interim dean of that college. 

“Her extensive experience and leadership skills make her an excellent choice for this position,” Pintar wrote. “Prior to her role as associate dean, Sara has held various leadership positions, including chair of the department and program director within health professions. A proud YSU alumna, Sara’s dedication and proven track record make her well-suited for this role.”

Pictured at top: Kelly Wilkinson and Jeffery Allen.

Published by The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.