Transforming Potential into Purpose at Dean College

In the heart of Franklin, Dean College has been shaping futures for more than 160 years. Stroll across its compact, tree-lined campus and you’ll see students headed to class, rehearsing in the theatre, or on their way to internships that put their classroom learning into action. For many, this is where raw potential is transformed into confidence, skill, and purpose.

“Every student walks onto Dean’s campus with unique strengths and aspirations,” says Dr. Scott Sibley, Provost. “Our role is to meet them where they are, challenge them, and guide them toward becoming confident, capable professionals.”

That philosophy is woven into every aspect of the Dean experience. With just 1,200 full-time undergraduates, small class sizes make it easy for faculty to know students by name. Advisors tailor an academic plan to each individual’s goals, while required internships ensure every graduate has a meaningful real-world experience. Partnerships with organizations like Kraft Sports + Entertainment and the Franklin Performing Arts Company connect students directly to industry networks.

The results speak for themselves, with 96 percent of graduates employed or in graduate school within one year of earning their degree. 

For recent graduate, Bree Gazeille ’24, that attention made all the difference. “Thanks to the incredible support from Dean, I’ve surpassed my academic expectations and achieved more than I thought possible,” she says. “Their guidance paved the way for two incredible internships, a job in my desired field post-graduation, and acceptance into grad school.”

In a higher education landscape often defined by large lecture halls and anonymous crowds, Dean offers something refreshingly different with a close-knit community dedicated to helping students achieve their full potential.  That kind of outcome is no accident. Alongside academic expertise, Dean students leave with the skills employers value most, including communication, collaboration, leadership, global awareness, and problem-solving. These abilities are practiced and refined through both coursework and campus life.

Performing Arts alumna, Gabrielle Fernandes credits Dean with giving her more than technical training. “Dean has been an integral part of my professional success,” she says. “Through Dean, I have been able to grow my network by meeting and connecting with other alumni, which has led to jobs and bookings. Dean’s tight-knit community really is a family.”

For a growing number of students, Dean offers something rare in higher education: a place where talent is nurtured, ambition is matched with opportunity, and futures are built one experience at a time.