with Thomas Williamson
Thomas Williamson
Born and raised:
Cumberland, Md.
Currently resides:
Ringwood
Education:
B.S., math and physics, University of Maryland
Ph.D., mathematics, Rutgers University
Community involvement:
* Commissioner of Passaic Planning Board and Agricultural Development
Board
* Trustee for Passaic County Vision 2020 program, dedicated to the economic
and cultural development of Passaic County
* Democratic Municipal Leader for Ringwood
* Vice president of Ringwood's Friends of Music program
Hobby:
Home repair
Thomas (Tom) Williamson is a hands-on kind of guy. So much so that the
interim assistant dean of the College of Science and Mathematics always
keeps a pair of work gloves in his office.
This 30-year veteran of the University enjoys doing his own projects at
home and has a keen understanding of the construction process, so he is
not content just overseeing the work. Tom is actively involved in construction
projects in Richardson, Science, Finley and Mallory halls. "They
are organic projects, meaning there is often not a set plan," he
explained. "We tend to see things more clearly as the work progresses."
But Tom's hands-on approach as interim assistant dean isn't limited to
construction. Working in the Dean's Office puts Tom in touch with a lot
of activities and projects including freshman welcome and orientation,
and PharmFest.
"Because of my background at the University, I understand the issues
that the faculty and chairs bring forward," he said. "As a former
faculty member I have a connection to the students as well. I have been
fortunate to be able to help some students with academic concerns and
to rectify situations on a case-by-case basis."
Tom got his start at Montclair State as an assistant professor fresh out
of graduate school at age 26. In 1990 he was appointed deputy chair of
the then Department of Mathematics and Computer Science and served in
that capacity until 1999 when he took over as interim assistant dean.
During his tenure as deputy chair, Tom worked on the Faculty Scholarship
Incentive Program, which gives release time for faculty to do research.
During his interimship, Tom has enjoyed working closely with Dean Robert
Prezant. "I value the trust and respect I receive from the dean for
my input," he said. "I am confident that the dean will bring
the College forward."
Tom sees the time he's spent at Montclair State as one of his greatest
assets. "In the past eight years we have brought to the College a
great team of faculty members committed to teaching and research,"
he said. "I bring my intimate knowledge of the University to my job,
and a level of confidence that all issues will be appreciated."