Updates

Department Chair Appointment Process to Undergo Review

December 14, 2023

 

At the request of President Davidson and based on input we received during recent conversations with students, colleagues and community members, the Office of the Provost will immediately begin a review of the policies and processes related to the appointments of all department chairs, including the removal of Chicana/o Studies Department Chair Dr. Adriana Nieto. In collaboration with department faculty, a temporary chair will be appointed to lead the department until we complete our review and determine the path forward.

In addition, I will look into other concerns and recommendations on what support is needed to further strengthen the Chicana/o Studies Department. MSU Denver values the legacy of the Chicana/o Studies Department and recognizes the huge impact it’s had on our community for more than 50 years.

It is important to know that we hear the student and faculty concerns regarding Dr. Adriana Nieto’s removal from her administrative position as department chair. However, we will not publicly share details of any employee’s performance.

That said, I would like to acknowledge and recognize that Dr. Nieto is a highly valued and respected faculty member, advocate, and scholar of Chicana/o Studies. I look forward to meeting with students again in January to discuss the status of the review and continuing to support the department’s work serving students’ academic, community and professional enrichment and engagement.

Sincerely,

Marie T. Mora, Ph.D.
Provost Ad Interim & Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs
Office of the Provost/Academic Affairs
Metropolitan State University of Denver
Denver, CO 80204