Susan R. Raftery has been named assistant vice president of lifelong learning. In this position, Raftery will assume supervision of the Metropolitan Programs and Summer School unit and coordinate distance-learning efforts across the university. Her appointment was effective June 17, and she reports to the provost and senior vice president for academic affairs.

Raftery joins Wayne State from South University where she was vice president for academic affairs and dean of faculty. Prior to her current appointment, she spent time both in universities as well as the private sector. Raftery holds a PhD and an MS in Sociology and a BA in Humanities, all from Ohio State University.

"Sue Raftery is highly energetic and brings to Wayne State extensive experience in developing distance-education programs and courses, particularly online courses. She is a visionary thinker who has the experience necessary to lead Wayne State into the distance-learning arena in a significant way," said Charles R. Bantz, WSU provost and senior vice president for academic affairs. "Her unique set of skills, experience and contagious enthusiasm will strongly support Wayne State's efforts to enhance educational opportunities for our students. We are pleased to have Sue Raftery join the Wayne State community."

Metropolitan Programs and Summer School, a key unit in the College of Lifelong Learning, is responsible for Wayne State's off-campus centers in Oakland, Northwest Wayne, and Macomb Counties. Metropolitan Programs also coordinates the Wayne State summer school and offers non-credit programs.

Wayne State University is a premier institution offering more than 350 academic programs through 14 schools and colleges to more than 31,000 students in metropolitan Detroit.