By Brianna Wallen
News Editor
The university welcomes a familiar leadership with Sandra Bulmer appointed as interim president. After 26 years of service to the university, Bulmer officially stepped into the role with a wealth of experience and a strong connection to the campus community.
From her time as Dean of the College of Health and Human Services to her years of teaching in the Department of Public Health, Bulmer has built a legacy of dedication that she now brings to the university’s highest office.
“I’ve always been at Southern, my whole academic career,” Bulmer said. “So, when they did a national search, I applied for the job and got it. So, I did that job for 11 years, and then I was asked to do this job, and I’ve already fallen in love with it.”
With Bulmer’s roots embedded in the institution, she said she is continually drawn back by the university’s mission of diversity, academic excellence, access, social justice, and service to the public good.
As a first-generation college graduate herself, Bulmer said she sees that mission reflected in the university’s culture.
“Southern is that kind of university for the state of Connecticut, like the first-gen atmosphere,” Bulmer said.
Bulmer emphasized that the institution’s commitment to affordability is just as important as its dedication to academic excellence.
“People shouldn’t have to settle for a lesser educational experience just because they can’t afford the private school prices, and I think Southern does that,” Bulmer said. “Each program stands up right against Quinnipiac and Sacred Heart Fairfield. We’re right there exceeding them in many regards.”
Along with the university’s identity, Bulmer said that her passion for working with students motivates her.
