July 19, 2024
Ben Stark appointed assistant dean for infrastructure and faculty support in College of Arts and Sciences
Ben Stark has been appointed assistant dean for infrastructure and faculty support in Kansas State University's College of Arts and Sciences, effective June 11. Stark has served as interim dean for research and facilities since March 2023.
Stark joined K-State's School of Music, Theatre, and Dance as an assistant professor and technical director of theatre in 2009. He was promoted to associate professor in 2014 and professor in 2022. Prior to joining the Arts and Sciences Dean's Office full time, he served as associate director of the school, leading administrative efforts in production, facilities, technology and programmatic budgeting. He also directed the theatre program's marketing, management and technical design efforts both in and outside the classroom.
"I'm happy to have Ben permanently join our college's leadership team," said Chris Culbertson, dean of the college. "During his time as interim assistant dean, he has been instrumental in helping us with infrastructure improvements, and his experience with both facilities and faculty support will be valuable as we grow the college."
Stark has served on several committees at K-State, including unit- and college-level planning and safety committees and Faculty Senate. He was instrumental in developing promotion, tenure and evaluation documents for the School of Music, Theatre, and Dance. He also has led various unit space migrations, laboratory and classroom renovations, and other campus improvements including those to the Chapman Theatre in Nichols Hall and the Purple Masque Theatre in West Stadium.
Professionally, Stark works for a variety of production companies. Most recently, he worked with Hudson Scenic on the revival of "Sweeney Todd," "The Notebook" and "The Wiz" on Broadway. He has been an engineer and technical and scenic director and designer on many productions throughout Kansas, the Midwest and the East Coast. In addition to theatre, he has worked in television and live production for recurring events such as the NBA on TNT and the Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular.
As assistant dean for infrastructure and faculty support, Stark will oversee facility construction, maintenance and repair; coordinate space allocation and migration; advise on the college's instructional fee programs which support laboratory supplies and equipment; and coordinate with research compliance and safety offices. Additionally, to better support faculty, Stark will review program promotion and tenure documents; advise on faculty workload; oversee faculty awards; develop policies and procedures for onboarding; and coordinate professional development opportunities.
"I am elated to have the opportunity to build upon the work I've done as an interim assistant dean and to assist faculty development and morale," said Stark. "I look forward to continuing to cultivate and promote the outstanding work being done in the college."
Stark holds a bachelor's degree in theatre and English from the University of Iowa and a Master of Fine Arts from Yale School of Drama.