Effective February 1, Dr. Rachel Eells will join Concordia College New York as Vice President for Academic Affairs-elect. As Dr. Eells transitions to the role, Dr. William Salva, Concordia’s Dean of the Accelerated Degree Programs, will serve as Interim Vice President for Academic Affairs through May.
Dr. Eells comes to Concordia College New York from Concordia University Chicago (CUC), where she was Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. A tenured professor, she also chaired the psychology department at CUC. She brings a deep portfolio of accomplishments in executive academic leadership, as well as in her scholarly publications, presentations, and invited speaking roles. She holds a Ph.D. in Educational Psychology from Loyola University Chicago, an M.S. in Gifted/Talented Education from University of Arkansas at Little Rock, and a B.S. in Elementary/Special Education from Concordia College Seward.
Dr. Eells said: “I’m thrilled to be joining the diverse and vibrant community at Concordia College New York. During this transformative time in higher education, I am very excited to be part of Concordia’s ministry to provide an unparalleled student-centered community of learning. I look forward to working with President Nunes and his leadership team to implement Concordia’s strategic vision for the future."
President John A. Nunes said: “Dr. Eells is a rising star in higher education, and we are blessed that she has chosen to put her wide range of talents to work for Concordia College and our students. Her passion for cultivating communities of diverse learners and building a culture that seeks and embraces opportunities to grow, improve and innovate matches our own, making her an ideal fit for the role.”