Four Questions with New Senior Leadership
Emerson welcomed a new executive director of the Elma Lewis Center and a new vice president and dean of campus life this summer. people@Emerson asked them to answer four questions:
Judy Pryor-Ramirez
Executive Director, Elma Lewis Center
Where did you work prior to your arrival at Emerson?
I was the director of the Office of Civic Engagement and Social Justice at Eugene Lang College of Liberal Arts at The New School in New York City, where I oversaw a vibrant portfolio of programs for students, faculty, alumni, and community partners. In my role, I also taught part-time in Sociology and directed the minor in Ethnicity and Race.
What is your favorite thing about Emerson so far?
I feel a spirit of community and generosity among the faculty, staff, students, and alumni I have met so far. I find folks to be invested in the success of the College and the collective work it takes from each of our standpoints to move the College forward. The sense of Emersonian pride that lingers along Boylston and Tremont is infectious!
What are you excited about working on during your first year here?
In my first year, I am excited to continue listening and learning from students, faculty, staff, alumni and our community partners in the city. My work rests on relationship building with all of these constituents so that we can successfully animate the Center’s work. I am also excited about my continued inquiry into the life of Miss Elma Lewis ’43, daughter of Boston, arts institution builder, and civil rights activist. Did you know that she received both the MacArthur Genius Award and the Presidential Medal for the Arts? I look forward to finding ways the Center can meaningfully weave Miss Lewis’s legacy into our programs and initiatives.
What is your favorite thing about Boston so far?
I love cities and Boston is a city to love! My favorite thing about Boston right now is the renovated Boston Public Library main branch in Copley Square. I love how older architectural charms of the Bates Reading Room meets modernity in the form of the WGBH radio studio and Newsfeed Café. Not to mention, I also love the intentional space for children and teens. My nine-year-old son is a fan!
Jim Hoppe
Vice President and Dean, Campus Life
Where did you work prior to your arrival at Emerson?
For the past 12 years, I was at Macalester College, in St. Paul, Minnesota, where I was dean of students.
What is your favorite thing about Emerson so far?
The people. Every day, I meet more amazing students, faculty, and staff who reinforce that coming to Emerson was a good choice.
What are you excited about working on during your first year here?
I want to get to know the rhythm and pace of life on campus. I’m looking forward to seeing the various productions, events, and work that our students produce.
What is your favorite thing about Boston so far?
Boston Common. I try to walk from North Station to campus every day and really look forward to the time spent walking through the park.