Klass appointed Dean of Students in University, succeeding Marshak

Stephen Klass

“This is an incredible opportunity and challenge, and I am truly grateful to be able to continue the great work of Margo Marshak and her predecessor, Ed Turkington,” Klass said. “I am really looking forward to working with a phenomenal set of staff and faculty and with our wonderfully talented student body.”

Klass came to Chicago from the University of Rochester, where he had held several administrative positions from 1988 to 1995. He joined the University as Director of Auxiliary Services, and by 1997, he had been named Deputy Dean of Student Services for Housing and Dining Services and Assistant Dean of the College. In 2001, Klass was promoted to his current position.

Klass earned a B.A. with honors from Hobart College and an M.S. in higher education administration from the University of Rochester.

“Steve’s vision and energy have made him a key contributor to most of the important improvements in student life at Chicago in recent years,” President Randel wrote in a statement to University deans and officers. Klass was a leader of the project to establish the Chicago Card system; led the restructuring of the campus dining program, including the development of Hutchinson commons, the renovation of the C-Shop, the introduction of flex dollars and the development of the new Bartlett Dining Hall; greatly improved the campus transportation system, including the introduction of evening downtown service and CTA buses that serve both campus and the surrounding community; and played a key role in the conception and programmatic development for the Max Palevsky Residential Commons.

Most recently, Klass has worked closely with the Office of International Affairs to improve its federal reporting system and facilitate its move to and greater integration with International House. He also has chaired the steering committee that is guiding the implementation of new student information systems.

Marshak’s achievements as Vice President and Dean of Students have included building closer ties to student government and other student groups to advocate more effectively for them; establishing a housing task force; developing closer relations with deans of students in the graduate and professional schools; overseeing the restructuring of the student health insurance plan; and working closely with new faculty and trustee committees on student services.

“It has been a very enriching experience to work with Don Randel, an extraordinarily able leader for this great University, as well as all the highly talented faculty, staff and students here,” Marshak said. “The seriousness of purpose of this unique institution has taught me lessons that will be valuable assets throughout my life.”

“We are very fortunate to have been Margo’s colleagues, and Caltech is just as fortunate to have recruited her,” Randel said. “And Steve Klass’s thoughtful, energetic and collegial work for the University gives me great confidence that he will build on her accomplishments and lead our Dean of Students office most successfully in the years ahead.”