Kathleen Burke, the former dean of Trinity University’s School of Professional Studies, will become the next dean of the College of Professional Studies, University officials announced today. 

“Kathleen Burke’s experience and demonstrated leadership in continuing education make her a perfect fit for GW’s College of Professional Studies,” University President Steven Knapp said in a news release. “She brings to the University a keen understanding of both higher education and the business community. These attributes will serve to advance the college’s reputation among the region’s working professionals who seek superior programs in sought-after fields of study. ”

Burke, who is currently a higher education consultant for IBM, will begin serving as dean on October 20. She is the founding dean of Georgia South University’s Division of Continuing Education and Public Service, and previously served as the associate dean of undergraduate studies at the University of Maryland, according the news release.