Judith M. Robinson, director of institutional assessment, Anna Maria College
Robinson
Anna Maria College in Paxton has created a new position to unify its assessment processes and better measure the effectiveness of its programs. To fill the new position, the college found Judith Robinson, a veteran of similar work at Boston College. In this Q&A, Robinson talks about moving to a smaller campus, returning to the Worcester area after decades elsewhere and an education career that has already gone from elementary school classrooms to college administrative offices.
Vital Stats
Age: 52
Residence: Groton
Family: Husband, John; sons, Christopher and Mark
Education: Doctorate in developmental psychology, Boston College; master's in counseling psychology, University of Connecticut; bachelor's in education, University of Massachusetts Amherst
Previous job: Assistant dean for student development, Boston College
Start date at new job: Aug. 16
Q. How are you settling in at your new office?
A. Settling in has gone very smoothly. The faculty and staff have been very welcoming and it is easy to feel part of this community in a relatively short period of time. It has been a positive transition to a smaller campus environment where there is a solid sense of community, professionalism and commitment to the institution and to educating our students.
Q. What's your favorite thing about Central Massachusetts?
A. I enjoy the beautiful scenery throughout the area, particularly this time of year. The area has much to offer with regard to the arts, dining, etc. I lived in Worcester in the early 80s and it's nice to revisit places in the area.
Q. How close is this to what you imagined in high school you'd end up doing?
A. I was always interested in education and started out my career as an elementary school teacher. That said, I never could have guessed that I would be working in higher education. I've worked at a number of different colleges and universities and enjoy working with students in this age group, the campus environment and the collegiality I find here.
Q. How far is your commute to the office?
A. My commute is about 45 to 50 minutes, but it is a relaxing drive. In my previous position I would drive one hour and 15 minutes one way on an average day and if it rained, it could take up to one hour and 45 minutes. My new commute to Anna Maria is scenic, part back roads, part (not congested) highway. I only pass through one traffic light-not a bad way to start the day.
Q. What could local and state governments do to make things better for your business?
A. First, it is important that governments support students by partnering with colleges and universities to make higher education accessible to all who choose to take advantage of it, particularly in these difficult economic times. Second, local and state governments can support the good work being done at colleges everywhere. Anna Maria College offers wonderful academic and student-life programs and anything the government can do to support the growth of the local economy and, ultimately, the work being done at AMC, becomes a win-win for everyone.
Q. What's the best way to keep your energy and motivation up when you're having a long day?
A. I get energized when working on new projects with colleagues. The idea sharing and collaboration keeps me motivated. That said, on those long days, it's helpful to take a break, get out of the office for a bit, and re-energize.
Q. Where's the best place to get lunch near your new location?
A. I haven't ventured off-campus for lunch quite yet, but have enjoyed eating with colleagues on campus. That's an advantage to working at a college-choices for lunch are a step away.
Q. Do you have any hobbies outside of work?
A. Time with my family is a priority. We enjoy boating and spending time down near the Cape. I'm definitely an ocean person. I also enjoy running and spending time with my book club. I've made great connections and have read some very interesting books.
Q. What's on your to-do list for the next couple of days?
A. Working on assessment plans for academic programs and services and developing materials to support this work. Keeping busy for sure.
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