EIU Media Relations

Gilman Named New Dean, School of Continuing Education, at EIU

The newly named dean of the School of Continuing Education at Eastern Illinois University has a history of building strong relationships between a university and its local/regional constituencies.

Regis M. Gilman, currently serving as interim dean of Educational Outreach at Western Carolina University in Cullowhee, N.C., plans to assume her new position at the Charleston campus on July 1.

“Our School of Continuing Education has traditionally offered a wide variety of outreach programs that provide opportunities for economic, educational and professional development growth to a variety of individuals,” said Blair Lord, provost and vice president for academic affairs.  “I look forward to Dr. Gilman’s arrival and the impact she’ll have on our continuing success in extending academic programs and services beyond normal campus boundaries.”

Gilman, who has been at WCU since January 2007, previously served as an assistant professor of educational media at Appalachian State University (2003-2006) and as associate dean for academic affairs at Lenoir-Rhyne University (1999-2002).  She has also gained continuing education experience at Missouri State University (Springfield), Indiana University (Indianapolis) and Iowa’s Drake University, plus others.

“My experiences as an administrator at several institutions provide a broad perspective of how institutions of higher education can make a difference in their local and larger communities, particularly as they extend access through online programs and continuing/professional higher education,” Gilman said.

“Given the economic impact that programs of access and outreach have by extending the boundaries of the university to adults and underserved populations – we do truly change lives.”

As dean, Gilman will serve as the executive officer for the internal and external affairs of EIU’s School of Continuing Education, which is a “bridge to the community beyond the campus to provide credit and noncredit programs, degrees, certificates, workshops, seminars and conferences.”

On an annual basis, the School of Continuing Education provides programs for 10,000 students.

Gilman replaces Will Hine, who announced his retirement after having served as dean of the School of Continuing Education since 1986.