Ball State University's Women's and Gender Studies program began this semester with a new title and director.
Lisa Pellerin, associate professor of sociology, started her position as director of the program last week.
Pellerin, who has worked at Ball State since 2001, said she decided to apply for the job because it sounded like an interesting challenge.
"I enjoy administrative challenges," she said. "There's some work to be done in terms of enhancing what's already there."
During the summer, the program underwent several changes, including staff cuts and a new title. Formerly known as the Women's Studies Program, Pellerin said the program's new, more broad title of Women's and Gender Studies can encompass other issues, such as masculinity and sexual identity.
Staff cuts eliminated the assistant director position and shortened the administrative coordinator job to a part-time position.
Pellerin said these budget cuts were made so the program's spending would better match other programs of the same size.
Although there haven't been any changes to the curriculum yet, she said this could change soon. Pellerin is accepting applications from faculty members interested in teaching within the department and said she would like to develop new classes for the program.
Pellerin said she also hopes to develop a community of scholars, expand the size and visibility of the program and get students more involved in research.
Michael Maggiotto, dean of the college of sciences and humanities, hired Pellerin as the director.
Maggiotto said there was a "strong interest" in the position, but that Pellerin was chosen because of her experience and enthusiasm.
Before coming to Ball State, Pellerin received her doctorate's degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Maggiotto said her research in the fields of sociology and gender studies made her a good candidate.
"She offers, really, the perfect mix of skills and a vitality that will inspire students and teachers alike," he said.
Read More
Three Air Jam teams take home the win
October 12, 2012Nineteen teams shimmied, shook and flipped for a sold out John R. Emens Auditorium on Thursday night during the 25th annual Air Jam.
Bill Clinton Speaks at North Central High School
October 12, 2012Former President's Speech Could Have Effect on State Senate Race
