College settles with Cole-Newkirk

Roose continues to serve as acting dean

Oberlin College has reached a settlement with former Dean of Student Life and Services Charlene Cole-Newkirk. The amount of the settlement has not been disclosed.

Cole-Newkirk resigned her post Oct. 13, 1997. Her immediate departure sent shock waves through a largely unsuspecting campus.

College President Nancy Dye declined to name an acting dean. In a move that was characterized by Dye as "unconventional," Assistant to the President Diana Roose was asked to oversee the division.

"I feel good about what we're doing right now," Dye said.

According to Dye, there are currently no plans to launch a search this year.

"There is no immediate rush," Dye said.

College attorney Michael Fransz said, "Both parties were able to to resolve things amicably. It was a very standard agreement."

Cole-Newkirk's attorney, Mark Katz, did not return phone calls to his office Thursday.