Dan DaranciangTrudy Palmer
Dean of Arts and Sciences
Academic Advising
Tell us about your background-where you were born, where you grew up, your family, and your education.
I was born in Chicago and lived there most of my life, until high school. During high school, I lived in St. Louis. I have one brother, who lives in Virginia. Neither of my parents is alive.
Did you attend college and/or job training? Where?
I took a lot of time off in the course of completing my undergraduate degree. Eventually, I finished at UCLA with a B.A. in English. From there, I went to Stanford for my M.A. and Ph.D. in English and American literature.
What was your mascot? In a fight, who would win: the mascot from your alma mater or the Wash. U. Bear?
If I remember correctly, UCLA’s mascot is a bear as well. Who knows who will win when two bears duke it out.
What brought you to Wash. U.?
My job in the College Office.
What is your favorite memory of working as dean of Arts & Sciences?
Being invited to dinner at the Wash. U. apartment shared by three of my advisees. It was a great evening and a delicious meal.
What did you do before you became a dean?
Before Wash. U., I worked in magazine publishing. Before that, I taught in the English department at Tufts University.
What was your favorite subject during college?
English.
What was your most memorable project while attending college?
My favorite activity was working as a writing tutor for low-income
students at UCLA.
What’s the best thing about your job? What’s the most challenging part?
I enjoy helping students reach their potential. The hardest part is getting students to cut down on their commitments so that they have time to breathe.
What are you most proud of in your life?
Holding on (for 17 years) to the dream of adopting a child until that dream finally came true.
Is there a guiding principle in your life?
Yes, I believe God’s goodness is infinite. As I understand that better, I see more of God’s goodness in action in my life and the lives of others.
Can you name some of your past works and achievements?
I had a supporting role in a James Baldwin play during graduate school. I received an award for my work, on behalf of foster children in Boston. Earlier this year, I bought a car on eBay, which was quite an accomplishment for a techno-dinosaur like me.
What is your favorite book/movie?
“Beloved” by Toni Morrison. It’s a brilliant book.
Something interesting that many people don’t know about you is…?
I’m a mountain goat at heart.
What do you hope to accomplish in the coming year?
I’d like to get a personal essay published, and I hope to survive living with a 13-year-old.