Mark Govoni is the Dean of Students here at Philadelphia University. I got the chance to speak with him about his role as the Dean, and what he is looking forward to the most after he retires at the end of June.
How long have you been the Dean of Students?
9 Years.
What do you feel has been your biggest accomplishment as the Dean of Students?
I am very pleased with the number of students I was able to make a difference for. I am also very proud of the implementation of Starfish, because it brought us to the next level of helping students, and was a game changer for first year students who typically struggle the most while adjusting to college life. I was part of the team that discussed implementing Starfish, and I feel it meets the mission to provide quick support for students. I am happy with the staff we have and our strong and clear response to students who need assistance. My motto is, “When in doubt, call the Dean of Students.”
So I hear you’re retiring at the end of June. How do you feel about that? What made you decide you were ready to retire?
I have been in higher ed[ucation] for 36 years, and I know now that I’m ready to retire. People say, “you’ll know when you’re ready” and I feel that way now. I compare to it to running a marathon; When you hit the 25.5 mile mark, you pretty much know you’re done. Most of us jog to the finish line and wait for relief, and that’s what I’m doing now.
What are you looking forward to the most after retiring?
I am looking forward to not working. I have a list of things I want to do while I am retired, and one of them is to play golf more. I do not aspire to get a retirement job, although there is a possibility I may stay connected to PhilaU by helping out with the cross-country team, which I have done for years. I also hope to visit my daughter in New Mexico, and my son in Minnesota.
Do you plan on staying in the Philadelphia area?
Yes, will be moving in with partner Janice. I’m used to moving, but I want to stay in the Philadelphia area because it fits with my lifestyle, and I have friends here at PhilaU that I want to stay in touch with. I also have immediate family nearby that I hope to see and spend more time with.
What will you miss the most as the Dean of Students?
I think the setting. There’s something about college life that’s attracted me, and I’ve enjoyed working in a college setting. I will also miss the connectivity of working in a place I like with people I like. I know I will be teary at graduation, especially because it will be the last one I attend. I feel as though I had a good run in my job, and I will be looking forward to being outside rather than inside.