The University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee has a new leader.
Dr. Sandra Stone has been named the new regional chancellor, replacing Dr. Arthur Guilford, who retired this past July.
Stone, 59, is currently vice president for academic affairs at Dalton State College in Georgia.
Speaking to reporters on a conference call Friday afternoon, she said now that USFSM accepts freshmen - its second class of newcomers started this fall - residence halls might be in the school's future.
"I have to really get in there and get some more information before making much of a statement about that, but definitely keep on growing the campus and trying to establish more of that traditional campus flavor, I think would be an important part of the future," Stone said.
Stone, who started her career as a social worker, previously held positions with the Board of Regents of Georgia's University System, the University of West Georgia, Emory University, Rollins School of Public Health, the City of Atlanta and the Centers for Disease Control.
“Sandra Stone’s experience, enthusiasm and collaborative spirit will help guide USFSM toward further excellence and strategic growth,” USF System President Judy Genshaft said in a release announcing the appointment. “Her contributions will surely have an impact on the entire USF System and the region that we serve."
Stone already had one tie to her new employer - said she found out about the job from her husband, who graduated from USF.
Stone's appointment follows that of Dr. Sophia Wisniewska, who was named regional chancellor at USF St. Petersburg in March 2013.
“We had many very talented candidates, but one stood out as the best fit for USFSM,” Wisniewska, the head of the Search Advisory Committee said. “I am grateful that President Genshaft shares our excitement about Sandra Stone, and I know we all look forward to working closely together.”
Stone, who will earn $240,000 a year, will take the post November 1.
Stone earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in psychology and sociology at the University of West Georgia, a doctoral degree in sociology from Emory University, and a post-doctoral certificate in organizational behavior from Tulane University's Freeman School of Business.
USFSM Regional Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Dr. Terry Osborn served as interim regional chancellor after Guilford announced his retirement two months ago.
