In a significant development for the University of Michigan-Flint, Theodore Rippey has taken on the role of dean for the College of Arts, Sciences & Education (CASE). His appointment marks a new chapter for the institution, promising fresh leadership and innovative approaches.
Rippey’s academic journey began in Kansas City, and he joins UM-Flint with a wealth of experience from his previous role as associate dean for faculty development at Bowling Green State University (BGSU). His interest in German studies was sparked during a pivotal period in world history, which he vividly recalls: “From the spring of my freshman year into the fall of my sophomore year, major things started happening in the world — protests in Tiananmen Square, apartheid in South Africa starting to crack, then the Berlin Wall came down — these were monumental shifts that, to me as a Cold War kid, weren’t ever supposed to happen,” Rippey shared. This transformative time inspired him to explore Germany firsthand, leading to a profound learning experience that emphasized the importance of communication and perspective.
Rippey’s academic inspiration also stemmed from an influential English professor during his freshman year, whose unique teaching style left a lasting impression. “He was kind of an eccentric genius professor, you know, with an always brilliant yet accessible way of looking at texts, just a fantastic teacher,” Rippey noted, which ultimately guided him towards a career in academia.
With more than a decade spent teaching German language and culture, and leading BGSU’s year abroad program in Austria, Rippey’s transition into academic administration in 2013 came as an unexpected, yet welcome shift. “Working in administration came to me by surprise,” Rippey admitted. His tenure on BGSU’s reappointment, promotion, and tenure committee broadened his appreciation for the faculty’s diverse work, leading him to pursue an associate dean position. This role allowed him to engage collaboratively within the university, a dynamic he found rewarding.
Rippey’s extensive experience as an associate dean, including periods as interim dean and interim vice provost at BGSU, prepared him for the leap to UM-Flint. He was drawn to UM-Flint’s vibrant energy and potential for innovation. “What I find most exciting about UM-Flint, and CASE in particular, is the openness, ideas, and energy already here,” Rippey remarked. His vision aligns with Flint’s revitalization efforts, aiming to forge strong community ties through applied experiences like internships and fieldwork.
Abby Parrill-Baker, UM-Flint’s Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, shares this enthusiasm for Rippey’s arrival. “I look forward to working with Dean Rippey as we both continue to discover the many great things about UM-Flint and CASE,” she stated, expressing confidence in their joint efforts to expand academic programs and support impactful research.
Rippey himself is encouraged by his early interactions with the UM-Flint community. “These first few weeks I have been here, it’s been wonderful — everyone has been so welcoming,” he said. He appreciates the university’s balance of offering diverse academic opportunities while maintaining a manageable size that allows for meaningful contributions to its progress.
