African American Resource Center Director: Valerie Allen

President Judith Rodin has appointed Valerie Dorsey Allen, a 1993 graduate of Penn's School of Social Work, as the new Director of the African American Resource Center.

A committee composed of members of the African American Resource Center's advisory board initiated the search in April after Jeanne Arnold, who had served as the Center's Director for the past eight years, was appointed Executive Director of the Office of Affirmative Action (Almanac April 1, 2003). President Rodin indicated that she was pleased to accept the search committee's recommendation in making the appointment. She noted, "Valerie is forthright and personable. She clearly communicates a passion for addressing issues of importance to the African American community."

Ms. Allen brings to the position extensive experience as a counselor and career development officer with Philadelphia Job Corps. She holds a B.A. in Criminology from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. In assuming the leadership of AARC, Ms. Allen is focused on addressing the needs and interests of the community and on increasing community awareness of the Center and its programs. She plans to expand the connections between AARC and other resource groups on campus.