Mount Mercy University names new academic leadership

Mount Mercy University has announced that Tom Castle has been named interim assistant provost and dean of adult programs. Colette Atkins has been named assistant dean of adult accelerated programs, and Randy Lyle, Ph.D., has been named assistant dean of graduate programs.

Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice Amanda Humphrey, Ph.D., has accepted the position of director of academic assessment.

In his role as interim assistant provost and dean of adult programs, Castle will oversee Mount Mercy's growing adult accelerated programs and four graduate programs. Castle previously served as Mount Mercy's dean of the institute.

As assistant dean of adult accelerated programs, Atkins will maintain the overall academic integrity of Mount Mercy's adult accelerated programs. Her primary responsibilities will be to recruit a diverse group of adult students, monitor the program's effectiveness and student success and provide leadership within all areas of the program. Atkins previously served as Advance program director.

As assistant dean of graduate programs, Lyle's primary responsibilities will include maintaining the overall academic integrity of Mount Mercy's four growing graduate programs: master of business administration, education, marriage and family therapy and nursing. Lyle continues to serve as program director for the marriage and family therapy program.

As director of academic assessment, Humphrey will be responsible for managing and providing leadership to ongoing academic assessment efforts, including coordinating annual assessments of student learning conducted by all majors.

“Mount Mercy is excited to have assembled such a talented and driven group of individuals who are dedicated to ensuring that Mount Mercy's graduate and adult accelerated programs continue to thrive,” says Acting Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs Melody Graham, Ph.D.