Health Care Professions department chair fills in seat and plans for upcoming year

Paul D. Sarvela was named interim dean of the College of Applied Sciences and Arts Wednesday.

Sarvela, who served as the chair of SIUC’s Department of Health Care Professions since 1999, will replace Elaine M. Vitello, who retired Sept. 30.

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The appointment, effective since Wednesday, is subject to ratification by the SIU Board of Trustees.

Sarvela already has several goals in mind that he wants to accomplish in his new role.

Sarvela said several faculty slots in the College of Applied Sciences and Arts need to be filled, and he is planning to find people to fill the positions.

He also plans to continue encouraging students to be involved in their community by trying to help others and improve health.

“I am interested in our students providing outreach to the community,” Sarvela said, “and to the degree to which our students are involved promotes servant leadership.”

Sarvela said the College of Applied Sciences and Arts offers a variety of strong organizations for students in the program and feels that involvement in these are important for students.

“I want to get students involved in groups and organizations,” Sarvela said. “We have great organizations in ASA, and they are a great way for students to learn about their profession.”

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