Providence, R.I.--Dr. Michael L. Hayes, assistant professor of social work and of public and community service studies, recently was elected president of the Providence College Faculty Senate for the 2009-10 academic year.

Hayes, who has taught at the College since 1999, is serving his third term on the Senate. He took over for Dr. MaryJane Lenon, associate professor of economics and MBA Program director, who served as president last academic year.

Hayes earned his M.S.W. and his Ph.D. degrees at the Smith College School for Social Work. He is a licensed independent clinical social worker in the Massachusetts.

Two other officers also were elected during the Senate's meeting on September 30. Dr. John E. Abbruzzese, associate professor of philosophy, was voted the Senate's vice president. Abbruzzese, who has been at the College since 2002, is serving his first term as vice president.

Janice G. Schuster, associate professor, coordinator of reference services and reference librarian in Phillips Memorial Library, was re-elected secretary. Schuster, who has been at the College since 1991, is serving her second consecutive term in the position.

The Faculty Senate is an elected body of faculty members that has the authority to initiate and regulate policies of the College, subject to the approval of the president of the College. Of the members, 14 are considered "at-large," while the remaining members represent academic departments throughout the campus.

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