Honors college chooses new dean

Philosophy professor Karen Hanson has been named the new dean of the Honors College, and she began her position Aug. 1.\nHanson has experience in administration. She became the chair of the philosophy department in 1997. She will teach classes in addition to her duties as dean, and she is also an adjunct professor of comparative literature, of American studies and of gender studies.\nHanson, who is originally from Minnesota, has received many honors from the University and accolades from her colleagues. \n"She is an outstanding scholar. She is highly regarded and a great citizen of campus," said Charlene Brown, director of extracurricular activities for the Honors College. "She has superb credentials." Brown served on the search committee for the new dean of the Honors College. She said Hanson has served on many committees on campus and has been excellent on all of them. Brown also described her as warm, personable and very smart. \n"She listens well. She's thoughtful, and her judgements are sound," Brown said.\nThere were 11 applicants for the job and two finalists, said Philosophy Professor Paul Eisenberg, who chaired the search committee for the position. Vice President for Student Development and Diversity Charlie Nelms chose Hanson for the position at the end of June, with consultation from many departments and groups on campus. \n"I know it's a terrific opportunity," Hanson said. "I'm very pleased that I was chosen." \nHanson oversees all units and departments of the Honors College, sets degree requirements and works to secure grant money, she said.\nSince there is efficient staff in place at the Honors College, the transition has been smooth, Hanson said. \nHanson replaces English professor Lewis Miller, who retired after a long and distinguished career at IU, Brown said. Hanson graduated from the University of Minnesota with a degree in philosophy and mathematics, and has a Ph.D. in philosophy from Harvard University. She has been at IU for 26 years. \n"I've had opportunities to leave, but IU is a very special place," she said. \nHanson said she likes the fact that working at a state university gives her a chance to serve the public.\nHanson is dedicated to her students, even encouraging them to call her at home if they have questions or problems.\n"I'm very excited about working with honors students," she said. "It's a treat to work with them; they're energetic. It's an exciting prospect."\nHanson is also dedicated to IU. \n"She has an affection and regard for this University, so she's a good person to recruit top students to this campus," Brown said.