Lisa Staino-Colco PhD '81, current Dean of Cornell's College of Human Ecology, has been selected to be the chief academic officer of Temple University. Staino-Cocio has been with Cornell since 1983 in various capacities. She has been a professor of professor in the fields of surgery, dermatology, cell biology, and genetics at Weill Cornell, as well vice provost for external affairs at the medical school. In a prepared statement, (the President of Temple) lauded Staiano-Coico's experience as an administrator, researcher and teacher. "Yet what has impressed us most - and what makes her a perfect match for Temple - is her energy," (she) said. "She is a dynamo." As dean of one of Cornell's four state-funded colleges, Staiano-Coico oversaw a $70 million budget, more than 1,400 students, and a $23 million annual research program.
It's obviously a great opportunity for Lisa, although it will be interesting to see how her departure plays into the University's new life sciences initiative and the attempt to bridge Weill Cornell and the Ithaca campus. Lisa has been traveling extensively for the University, speaking to alumni groups across the nation... no doubt as part of the capital campaign.
Late Update: The Chronicle has released its own stories regarding Staino-Colco's departure. On top of Lisa, Cornell will also be losing Lisa's husband, the vice provost for intercampus affairs. Alan Mathios, current associate dean of Hum Ec, will be interim dean until a replacement has been found.