Kevin Feris, professor and chair for the department of Biological Sciences, has agreed to serve as the inaugural director for the School of the Environment. Feris, along with Emily Wakild and Lejo Flores, led the process over the past few years to envision and design curriculum and programming for the school.
Feris came to Boise State in 2005 after completing work as a postdoctoral researcher at the University of California, Davis. He received his Ph.D. in microbial ecology from the University of Montana in 2003 and a B.S. in biology from the University of Alaska Anchorage in 1995.
College of Arts and Sciences Dean Leslie Durham said of the appointment, “I am delighted that Kevin has agreed to be the inaugural director of the School of the Environment. One of the true joys of the last three years has been watching Kevin collaborate with Lejo Flores and Emily Wakild to design a truly innovative school structure. Their work has been both careful and creative, and I’ve been truly impressed with how many voices from across campus they’ve drawn into their visioning work. I also observed with deep admiration the way Kevin led the Department of Biological Science over two terms. That is a complex department that is student-focused, equity-driven and incredibly successful in growing and sustaining a large and diverse research portfolio. I appreciate the values Kevin centers in his work, and I’m so excited about launching the School of the Environment in partnership with him.”
Feris commented, “I’m grateful for, and excited about the opportunity to help continue to build the School of the Environment. There’s plenty of work to do, but it’ll be fun! I’m looking forward to engaging with folks across COAS and campus to grow an inclusive School. One that will catalyze the development of new interdisciplinary opportunities for our students and faculty, form structures and systems that will support and enhance the success of our students, expand and integrate experiential learning opportunities into our curriculum, and build our community relationships through collaborative and co-developed scholarship and educational opportunities. And of course to amplify and celebrate all of the great things already happening. I know much work in these areas is already happening. I’m looking forward to collaborating with our on and off-campus communities to support on-going efforts and growing new ones where and when we can.”