New Chief Academic Officer Named

Dr. Eric EliasonDr. Eric Eliason has been named dean of the college and vice president for Academic Affairs at Concordia. He will begin his duties Aug. 1.

He succeeds Dr. Mark Krejci, who after nine years of service as Concordia’s dean and provost will return to his work as a teaching scholar in psychology. 

Eliason is currently professor of English at Gustavus Adolphus College, St. Peter, Minn., where he has been on the faculty since 1989. He served as interim dean of the faculty from 2005 to 2007, and then as academic dean from 2007 to 2009.

A specialist in 14th-century British literature, Eliason has twice been formally recognized for his excellence in teaching.

“I am delighted that Dr. Eliason will lead our academic program,” says Concordia President William Craft. “An established teaching scholar, a faculty leader, and an experienced dean, he brings a lived understanding of higher education in the Lutheran tradition and a demonstrated commitment to creative, collaborative work with faculty and staff colleagues.”

At Gustavus, Eliason led major projects to successful conclusions, including a new social science building. In 2011, he served as program director and instructor in Gustavus' Semester in Sweden program.

“I am drawn to Concordia’s values of liberal learning and faith, and the dynamic intent to understand and develop those values in our own time and world,” says Eliason. "I am thrilled to be joining a talented and accomplished Concordia community that embodies these ideals with humanity and warmth.”

Eliason is a Phi Beta Kappa graduate of Augustana College (Ill.) with majors in English, mathematics and computer science. He earned his master’s and doctorate degree in English language and literature from the University of Virginia, Charlottesville.

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