Dr. Carolyn Jacobs, Smith College of Social Work Dean, Joins Naropa University Board of Trustees

BOULDER, Colo. (February 25, 2011)— Naropa University is proud to announce the appointment of Carolyn Jacobs, MSW, PhD, Smith College School for Social Work Dean and Elizabeth Marting Treuhaft Professor to its board of trustees. Dr. Jacobs is the first African American woman to be appointed to the university’s board. She will serve as a fiduciary of university affairs, collaborating with other trustees to establish and maintain the university’s strategic and academic focus, to represent the university to the public, and to advance its international reputation and financial standing.

“Carolyn brings a wealth of experience and leadership—in both teaching and higher education, and uniquely in the context of her pioneering work in spiritually centered therapy and social work. Even in our preliminary meetings we glimpsed the insight, grounded perspectives, and delightful sense of humour she will add to our board deliberations. We are thrilled and honoured she’s decided to commit her widely sought time in service to Naropa’s mission,” said Martin Janowitz, chair of the board of trustees.

President Stuart Lord added, “I am delighted that the board of trustees has added Carolyn Jacobs to its membership. Her heart for contemplative education coupled with her vast expertise in higher education will deepen the already rich commitment that exists on the board of trustees. We are enthusiastically looking forward to what her character and experience will provide to Naropa University for years to come.”       

Hallmarks of her leadership have included not only an ongoing commitment to clinical excellence, but also to increased student access, pedagogical diversity, and to developing clinicians trained to respond to the mental health needs of returning servicemembers.

Of her appointment, Dr. Jacobs said, "I am delighted to join the Naropa University Board of Trustees and look forward to sharing in Naropa's commitment to academic excellence and contemplative pedagogy that enables faculty and students to pay attention to the process of inquiry, to be open to the unexpected, to see relationships in subject matter and to enhance students' inner lives. Naropa's leadership in contemplative education is an extraordinary resource for all of higher education.

Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, Naropa University is a private, nonprofit, nonsectarian liberal arts institution dedicated to advancing contemplative education. This approach to learning integrates the best of Eastern and Western educational traditions, helping students know themselves more deeply and engage constructively with others. The university comprises a four-year undergraduate college and graduate programs in the arts, education, environmental leadership, psychology and religious studies.

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