Dean of Libraries: Joan Ruelle
Ruelle comes to SU having served as the dean of the Carol Grotnes Belk Library at Elon University since 2012.
Ruelle will oversee the Patricia A. Guerrieri Academic Commons and all library services, including the Nabb Research Center for Delmarva History and Culture, the Curriculum Resource Center, and the new Museum of Eastern Shore Culture in downtown Salisbury. The SU Libraries has been named a “Best College Library” by the Princeton Review four times.
Over the past 12 years at Elon, Ruelle has worked to integrate the library as a key component in the academic and overall fabric of the campus. This work was completed through improved communication to the campus community, including library liaisons, a “State of the Library” address and additional communication of the library perspective to university-wide policy and decision-making bodies.
Ruelle earned her M.A. in library and information science from the University of Iowa. She also received a B.A. in English from the University of North Dakota and a master’s degree in women’s studies from Mankato State University.
Dean of College of Health and Human Services:
Dr. Matthew Laurent
Laurent brings nearly two decades of academic leadership experience, most recently as dean of the School of Health and Clinical Professions at Tarleton State University, where he advanced program accreditation, budget transparency and faculty development. His leadership led to the successful launch of new degree programs and strategic growth initiatives designed to meet workforce demands in health sciences.
Laurent has demonstrated a commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration and innovative program development. At Tarleton State, he managed a range of departments, oversaw accreditations in fields such as athletic training, social work and nutrition science, and he played a pivotal role in planning new educational spaces dedicated to interprofessional education. His efforts have been instrumental in creating robust learning environments that support student success and align with institutional goals.
Laurent’s vision for CHHS aligns seamlessly with SU’s mission to prepare career ready graduates who are culturally competent and community-minded, across fields such as nursing, social work and health sciences.