PHILADELPHIA –- University of Pennsylvania President Amy Gutmann and Provost Vincent Price announced today that Rebecca Bushnell has agreed to extend her term as dean of the School of Arts and Sciences at Penn until June 30, 2013.

“Rebecca has been a strategic and collaborative leader,” Gutmann said, “working closely with her faculty, with her leadership team and with the provost and me to identify key priorities and to advance the School’s vital education and research missions, even in the face of unexpected economic constraints.”

Bushnell’s term as dean was scheduled to end on Dec. 31, 2011.  She agreed to remain as dean for an additional 18 months to help carry forward the School’s ongoing initiatives, including the conclusion of the Making History fundraising campaign.

“We have consulted widely,” Gutmann said, “with SAS department chairs, other deans, senior officers of the University, the chairs of the Faculty Senate, Trustees chair David L. Cohen and SAS Board of Overseers chair and Trustee David Silfen.

“They are unanimous in their praise for all that Rebecca has done -– and continues to do -– to lead the School of Arts and Sciences from excellence to eminence, and they enthusiastically join the provost and me in supporting the extension of her term.”

“Under Rebecca’s leadership,” Price said, “the School has become stronger than ever, with a distinguished faculty and exceptional undergraduate and graduate students.  It has been a vital partner in integrating knowledge across campus, with exciting new interdisciplinary programs; innovative centers, institutes and undergraduate minors; and world-leading Penn Integrates Knowledge professors.”  

During Bushnell’s time thus far as dean, there has been increased support for students; dramatic facilities enhancements, including the new Music Building; and an expanding array of signature educational and research programs aligned with the School’s strategic plan.  Bushnell has helped raise more than $300 million to date for the School through the Making History campaign.           

“We are confident,” Gutmann said, “that, with Rebecca’s continued leadership, the School of Arts and Sciences will rise to the many opportunities and challenges ahead of it.”