Shilpa Davé leaves MRC

Dav´ moves on to teach at the University of Wisconsin at Madison

Shilpa Davé, assistant dean of student life and services, announced her resignation from Oberlin earlier this summer and accepted a position at the University of Wisconsin at Madison. Davé will serve as a visiting professor of Asian-American studies and English.

Davé explained the change as an opportunity to focus on teaching in her areas of expertise, and move away from her administrative responsibilities at residential life. "There are a lot of good reasons for me to come here," said Davé. She noted a greater emphasis on her research and work with graduate students as well as undergraduates. The University of Wisconsin is also Davé's alma mater.

Davé did express some regret for leaving Oberlin. "I especially enjoyed working with the students. I dearly miss Oberlin students. They are one of a kind," said Davé.

Davé's departure created quite a void in the Multicultural Resource Center.

Davé had served as interim director of the MRC. Stepping in to run the MRC this year will be Program Coordinators Ntombi Peters and Michelle Shim. No long-term planning is currently in effect for the future of the MRC. "We haven't had any real conversations yet, in what direction it will go. That will be a continuing conversation for this year," said Peters.

According to Shim, both Peters and herself will help to guide the MRC under new Dean of Students Peter Goldsmith. Shim said, "We are going to try and provide continuity and leadership."

Davé's presence in the MRC and her work with diverse issues on campus will be missed. "I really enjoyed my time working with her. She was a great administrator and a great supervisor," said Shim.

"I really enjoyed working with the former staff, and I wish Oberlin the best," said Davé.