Welcome to our “Meet the Dean” blog series! In this series, we are excited to take a deeper dive into who the remarkable leaders at the helm of our academic departments really are, within their careers at Eastern and outside of the nest. We recently talked to Dean Tracey Greenwood to discuss her journey in academia, gain insight into her inspirations, visions for the future, and more.
Dr. Greenwood has been Dean of the College of Health & Sciences (CHS) since August 2023 and has made significant contributions to our student experience, specifically through curriculum development and immersive student opportunities. She started at Eastern as a faculty member in 2006, teaching Health Promotion, Exercise Testing & Prescription, Metabolic Interactions, Exercise Prescription for Chronic Disease, and more. She received her undergraduate degree from University of Delaware, Master’s Degree from St. Joseph’s University, and PhD from Temple University before joining Eastern.
Learn more about Dean Greenwood in the exclusive interview below!
Professional Journey and Leadership
What inspired you to pursue a career in your field?
I was always a bit of a science lover and an avid exerciser. I found the interaction that exercise has on health and the human body fascinating.
Can you share a pivotal moment or experience that significantly shaped your leadership style?
It was actually a negative experience that had the most impact on me. It emphasized the importance of collaboration and mutual respect in leadership positions, teaching me how experiencing adversity can often lead to personal and professional growth. In the end, it helped shape me into the leader I am today and develop a collegial leadership style.
What has brought you the most joy during your time as Dean?
I have really enjoyed learning about all of the different programs within the College of Health & Sciences in more detail, beyond my direct areas of expertise. Meeting students from each of these programs and learning about their personal interests has also been incredibly fulfilling.
What initiatives or programs are you most proud of during your time as Dean?
The initial Master of Social Work accreditation was a major milestone for our Social Work program that I am proud of. Separately, I worked to develop a new faculty mentoring program to help new faculty members get settled into CHS and feel guided and cared for as they adapt to both Eastern and our college.
What advice do you have for students in the College of Health & Sciences who are looking to make the most of their education?
Explore courses outside of your major! Take advantage of the liberal arts courses offered in the general education requirements and other things that catch your interest. Taking classes outside of your direct major can broaden your horizons on so many levels.
Personal Passions and Interests
What personal interests or hobbies do you have outside of your professional work?
I am an equestrian. I started riding when I was 8 years old. Throughout elementary school and high school I showed all over the country on my dapple gray quarter horse/thoroughbred. I also went to college on an equestrian scholarship and was a point rider for my team at every show. I currently own an off-the-track thoroughbred horse named Noah :-) Being around horses is not only great for your physical health, but it has an enormous impact on mental health as well.
Is there a favorite quote you try to live by?
I have two favorites quotes that influence my life: “Love yourself because until you do, you are no good to anybody else” and “Never back up further than you have to.”
How do you balance the demands of your role as Dean with your personal life and well-being?
It is all about having a good work-life balance. I take time in the early mornings to exercise and then ride my horse in the after-work hours. Those activities help me to be active, stimulate my brain and body, and clear my mind.
Insights and Vision
What do you believe is the most critical skill for students to develop during their time in college, and why?
Time management is an incredibly important skill to master in life. It will not only help in juggling college responsibilities like school, sports, and work, but it will also help you manage your work/life balance. Another critical skill to develop in college is working collaboratively in a group. Collegiality and teamwork are attributes that will make you successful both in school and in your career afterwards.
Looking back, what is one piece of advice you would give to your younger self?
Stop worrying about all of the things that you cannot control. Everything happens exactly the way it is supposed to happen.