Illinois State University’s College of Education Dean Jim Wolfinger has been named the dean of the School of Education at St. John’s University in Queens, New York. Wolfinger will begin his position at St. John’s University on June 1, 2022. 

Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost Aondover Tarhule will appoint an interim dean for the College of Education pending a search for a permanent replacement. 

“Dean Wolfinger has made many contributions to campus and the College,” said Tarhule. “He has worked diligently to establish strong relationships across our community, our campus, and the state to collaboratively shape learning for our current and future students.” Tarhule noted during Wolfinger’s tenure the University saw the creation of the Barbara and Larry Efaw Center for Educator Excellence and forged a partnership in Teach Chicago Tomorrow with Chicago Public Schools and City Colleges of Chicago. “We will miss his strong leadership and amicable personality, but we are happy to see him continue to progress along his chosen career path and wish him the very best,” said Tarhule. 

Wolfinger has served as dean of the College of Education since 2019. He earned his Ph.D. from Northwestern University.