Providence, RI -- Rev. Kenneth Sicard, O.P., dean of residence life at Providence College since 1997, has been selected to serve as executive vice president in the next administration. The appointment is the first to be made by Rev. Brian J. Shanley, O.P., who was recently elected by the College's Board of Trustees and the Corporation to serve as the College's 12th president, effective July 1, 2005.

"Among his duties as executive vice president, Father Sicard will exercise oversight responsibility for various areas of College operations," explained Father Shanley. "By devoting his exceptional administrative skills to this role, he will enable me to better focus my energy and attention on other matters of critical importance to the College." 

Having worked with Father Sicard in various capacities since 1984, Father Shanley noted that he considers him "a close friend and trusted advisor who has demonstrated sound judgment on a wide range of issues. He will provide me with invaluable counsel."

Father Sicard, age 48, is a native of Fall River, MA. Following his graduation from Providence College in 1978 with a bachelor of science degree in accounting, he was employed as an audit manager at Fleet Financial Group (then Industrial National Bank) until 1984. During that time he pursued a master of business administration degree from Providence College, graduating in 1982.

In 1984 Father Sicard entered the Dominican Order, later earning his bachelor's degree (S.T.B.) and master of divinity degree from the Dominican House of Studies in Washington, DC. Ordained a priest in 1990, his first assignment was as chaplain at Ohio Dominican College in Columbus, Ohio. Father Sicard served there for seven years, also holding the position of instructor in business and theology.

In 1997 Father Sicard completed his studies for a doctoral degree in educational studies/business at Ohio State University and came to Providence College as the dean of residence life. In this role he has administered and supervised the College's residence life program and staff and has been responsible for overseeing all on-campus housing.

Since 2002, Father Sicard also has served as the treasurer of the Dominican Province of St. Joseph. In this role, he oversees the financial and accounting operations of the province, also chairing the Economic Council, a group of Dominicans and lay professionals.

"It is a real honor to be part of Father Shanley's leadership team," notes Father Sicard.
"I have known Brian for a very long time and have great respect and admiration for him. My work in residence life at Providence College has been a real joy and a great opportunity to work with and serve our students. Now I look forward to assuming new challenges and responsibilities."

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