President M. Lee Pelton introduced new faculty, 23 new global pathways programs, and a new meeting space in the semesterly State of the College letter.
Pelton opened the letter reflecting on the deaths of sophomore Daniel Hollis and Associate Professor Moses Shumow, then moved on to talk about future projects of the college. He also announced 23 new global pathways programs planned for the summer 2020 term but did not specify what the programs are or where they will be based.
The letter also announced ‘The Commons,’ an addition to the second floor of the Little Building, that will host conferences, seminars, and meetings for Emerson faculty. The space can also be leased to the public and will include a newer seating area and dining.
Pelton also used the letter to welcome faculty members such as Dr. Teusda Roberts, the new director of faculty development and diversity. The president also welcomed two members to the college’s senior leadership team, John Malcolm, vice president of institutional advancement, and Paul Dworkis, vice president of administration and finance.
Admission applications also rose in the past year, with a record number of applications for new first-time students for the fourth year in a row.
“There was a nearly 19% increase in applications for Fall 2019 compared to Fall 2018 (15,300 compared to 12,900),” Pelton wrote. “I am pleased to report that the acceptance rate is the lowest it has ever been at Emerson—33.3% in Fall 2019, down from 35.6% for Fall 2018 and 46% for Fall 2017.”
Pelton also wrote that the recently established Title IX working group will report its findings to the president no later than April 2020.
The president addressed the possible merger between Emerson and Marlboro College, a liberal arts school located in southern Vermont. The potential merger would give Emerson a total of $40 million in endowment and real estate.
“If our alliance is approved, Marlboro College will move its program to Emerson’s Boston campus in July 2020,” he wrote. “The alliance will keep the Marlboro legacy alive on our campus, while its undergraduates will be able to complete their degrees and their tenured and tenure-track faculty will continue to teach.”
