Chicago Heights, IL–(ENEWSPF)– Two new administrators have joined the staff of Prairie State College (PSC). They are Dr. Debra Prendergast, dean of business, mathematics, and natural science; and Patty Valenziano, associate dean of faculty affairs.
In her new position, Prendergast will provide vision, leadership, and support to the departments of business, information technology, industrial technology, natural science, and mathematics.
Prendergast has extensive academic and professional experience. Prior to coming to PSC, she was the dean of educational programs at Northwestern College where she was responsible for the overall evaluation and planning of instructional programs. Her employment began at Northwestern College in 1988 where she also held the positions of program coordinator for the School of Commerce and Technology and associate professor. Her professional experience includes positions such as partner, controller, and manager at various accounting firms.
Prendergast has a Ph.D. in Public Policy Analysis from the University of Illinois at Chicago, a M.B.A. from Governors State University, and a B.A. in Business Administration from Saint Xavier University. She is also a Certified Public Accountant and a Certified Management Accountant.
“During the interview process, I asked Debra what she thought of the possibility of adding mathematics and natural science to her span of responsibilities. She replied ‘Not an issue, I like to learn, and I am a fast learner,’” said Dr. Adenuga Atewologun, vice president of academic affairs. “In addition to her broad academic and administrative experience, we will benefit from her strong analytical mind and personable character.”
In her position as associate dean of faculty affairs, Valenziano will be responsible for the support, supervision, and professional development of adjunct faculty. She also will collaborate with division deans and full-time faculty.
Prior to her appointment as associate dean, Valenziano was the associate professor and coordinator of reading at PSC where she observed, supported, trained, and evaluated adjunct reading faculty. Before joining PSC in 2005, she was the director of education and employment services at Deborah’s Place in Chicago and prior to that a teacher at Albany Park Community Center.
Valenziano has a M.Ed. in Curriculum from University of Illinois at Chicago and a B.A. in English Literature from The Catholic University of America.
“I am delighted Patty is willing to put her strong people skills, creative energy, love for experimentation, and passion for student-focused teaching at our disposal,” said Atewologun. “She is the right person to help build the strongest connection with adjunct faculty. The academic administrative team will surely benefit from her rapport with full-time faculty and her distinguished record in classroom instruction.”
