Kurtz reappointed BGSU Firelands College dean

Submitted by BGSU

HURON – Bowling Green State University has announced that Dr. Andrew Kurtz has been reappointed dean of Firelands College on the Huron campus. Kurtz has served as dean since 2015.
“It is an exciting time for Firelands College and Bowling Green State University,” said John Fischer, provost and senior vice president for Academic Affairs, interim. “With Dean Kurtz’s work on four-year degrees, strengthening of college access programs and support for increased efficiencies, the Firelands campus is well-positioned for success. By working to collaborate with the community and support the economic development of the Firelands region, the college can continue to grow as a key partner in the development of an educated workforce for the area and all of Ohio.”
As dean of BGSU Firelands, Kurtz has strengthened the College’s academic portfolio; established new four-year degrees; overseen major facility renovations; created innovative new partnerships with community partners, including Cedar Fair and Firelands Regional Medical Center; and worked closely with the BGSU Foundation on the Changing Lives for the World campaign. He continues to promote BGSU Firelands as an accessible and affordable higher education option for the residents of Sandusky, Huron, Norwalk and surrounding communities.

“It is an honor and a privilege to serve Bowling Green State University, the residents of our region, and the faculty and staff of BGSU Firelands in the capacity of college dean,” Kurtz said. “In the coming years, I will continue to work with my colleagues at the University and in the community to ensure that BGSU Firelands serves the region relevant degree programs leading to viable careers, taught by faculty committed to the success of our students.

“Our near-term goals include gaining approval for the new Resort and Attraction Management bachelor degree, growing programs and partnerships in information technology and health care, and working on key initiatives designed to make BGSU Firelands even more welcoming and inclusive.”
Since joining the BGSU Firelands Humanities Department faculty as an English professor in 1997, Kurtz has served as department chair twice, as associate dean for engagement and outreach, and as associate dean for academic and student affairs.
Kurtz earned a doctoral degree in literary and cultural theory from Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, Pa., a master’s degree in English from Miami University, Oxford, Ohio, and a bachelor’s degree in English from the College of Wooster, Wooster, Ohio.
Kurtz and his family have lived in Huron for 22 years.