News

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s Zenia Agustin, PhD and professor in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics, has been appointed director of the University’s new integrative studies master’s program. She will also lead the undergraduate program.

“Dr. Agustin played a pivotal role in the development of the undergraduate integrative studies, and she brings her skilled knowledge of general education curriculum to this position,” said Parviz Ansari, provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs at SIUE. “This is a positively exciting program, and it provides an excellent new opportunity for our students.”

Agustin’s tenure at SIUE began in 1997. She has served as director of general education and actuarial science program director. As director of integrative studies, Agustin will report directly to SIUE’s Associate Provost for Academic Affairs Denise Cobb.

“I am happy and excited to be given an opportunity to lead this unique offering that opens up more opportunities for students,” Agustin said. “It is an honor to be trusted by the administration, particularly Provost Ansari, to help launch this program.”

Students can pursue a master’s of arts or science in integrative studies at SIUE. The academic opportunity allows students to integrate courses into a degree that meets the needs of an emerging career field.

According to Agustin, her main goal is to nurture the development of the program by collaborating with deans, faculty and staff of various colleges and professional schools whose combined expertise will ensure student success.

“Students who pursue this program are traveling on a unique path and may need individualized support and guidance,” explained Agustin. “With fast changing technology and the growing emphasis on globalization and interdisciplinary skills, these students, in consultation with professional advisors and faculty members, can design their own distinctive program that can equip them with the skills and knowledge to meet their specific academic and professional goals.”

Agustin emphasizes that the innovative undergraduate and graduate programs will produce graduates who are broadly trained and can meet the employment needs of several industries in the region.

“This program offers a rigorous, yet flexible, path to graduation,” she said. “It is a testament to SIUE’s commitment to student retention and graduation. This program will continue to build on the strength of our faculty who recognize the need for more interdisciplinary integration in the face of a constantly changing world.”

Photo: Zenia Agustin, PhD and professor in SIUE’s Department of Mathematics and Statistics.