In his ten years as Fairfield’s academic vice president, Orin Grossman hit all the right keys.
Perhaps, as famous for his ability as a concert pianist as for his administrative skills in leading the Academic Division of the University, Grossman announced last week that the upcoming school year would be his last in the administrative role.
“This will be my 10th year as AVP and 17th year as an academic administrator and I thought that was a pretty good run,” said Grossman. “Also, I want to get back to my music and teaching.”
Grossman said the thing he looks forward to the most is getting back to teaching.
“I’ve been fortunate in teaching classes occasionally as an administrator, but I really look forward to regular teaching as a faculty member,” he said.
Norman Solomon, dean of the Dolan School of Business, was hired by Grossman in 2001.
“At that time I thought-and continue to think-that here is a man of integrity, intellect and caring with a tremendous love for Fairfield University,” Solomon stated.
One of Grossman’s biggest accomplishments was the creation of academic centers, including The Center for Catholic Studies, The Center for Faith and Public Life, and The Center for Academic Excellence.
Solomon and many other colleagues emphasized Grossman’s uncanny talent on the piano.
“As a scholar he brings a penetrating intellect to his work and as performing artist he brings a zest and passion for excellence to his concerts,” Solomon said. “Anyone who has attended his concerts can certainly attest to his dedication and artistry-he is top notch!”
One of the other traits that came to mind when talking about the Harvard graduate was his superior intellect.
Dean of the School of Engineering E. Vagos Hadjimichael said: “The first word that comes to mind when I think of Orin is ‘smart.’ He is one smart man. It has been a pleasure to talk with him about complex issues ranging over many disciplines and degree programs in our various schools and have the confidence that he is with you every step of the way, with full understanding of what is at stake and what needs to be done next.”
Grossman said his biggest goal for the upcoming year is to continue the “implementation of the president’s [Fr. Jeffrey von Arx] strategic vision.” One of the people that will be instrumental in Grossman’s last year will be recently appointed Dean of the College of Arts and Science Robin Crabtree, who will take the position on August 1.
“Dr. Grossman has been generous to me in his support, guidance and mentorship,” said Crabtree. “He has been very supportive of my professional development.”
Crabtree, who is currently a communications professor and director of Service Learning, said Grossman has be a large part of creating and extending that part of the academic experience.
“When he told me he was stepping down at the end of next year, he said he looked forward to me being his boss,” said Crabtree. “For now I’ll look forward to enjoying my first year as Dean with him as my boss.”
And Grossman seems just as excited for the future path of academics at Fairfield, which is largely due to the expertise of faculty and administrators.
“I am very optimistic about Fairfield’s future because of the terrific people who are at the University in every division,” Grossman said.
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