Rankin has been named the new provost of the University of Maryland, College Park. She has previously held the position of dean at the University of Texas and is currently CEO of the National Math and Science Initiative.
What do you enjoy about working in the education field?
I think the most important thing is no matter what I’m doing in education, you’re making a difference in students’ lives. Everything you’re doing is contributing in a major way. As dean at the University of Texas, I would tell all the staff, “Even if you’re sweeping the floor, you’re making the country better by making students’ lives better.”
Do you have specific plans to bring to U.Md. as the new provost?
I’d really like as an administrator to support faculty initiatives. It will be a combination of learning what’s there already and what I might bring to it.
What does it mean to you to be named to this job?
I’m so excited about it. Maryland is a wonderful place. The university itself is a super university. Plus, I think it has potential to be even better in every dimension. It’s in a state where higher education is really valued. I feel like I’ve been given the best present in the world. I can’t wait.
What about U.Md. intrigued you to work there?
It’s not just a research university. It’s also a land grant university. That gives a whole other dimension to the reach and the activities of the university that are really wonderful. Also, I really have come to know and love the whole Washington area. It’s so exciting, and there are so many opportunities. You’re so close to the seat of power in the modern world. It provides this whole other dimension of opportunity for a university.
