David P. Illingworth. Photo by Rose Lincoln.

David P. Illingworth '71 has been named associate dean of Harvard College. He will join Thomas A. Dingman and Georgene Herschbach as associate deans, and will assume many of the responsibilities now held by Dean of Students Archie C. Epps III, who will step down this summer. In particular, Illingworth will have overall responsibility for student extracurricular affairs and other aspects of student life, according to Dean of Harvard College Harry R. Lewis.

Illingworth has begun meeting with the leaders of student groups. "It's important to get student input, and to listen to what they think is working and what can be improved upon," he said. "After 18 years of recruiting talented students to come to Harvard, I know full well that our extracurricular scene is a jewel in Harvard's crown. I am already very familiar with musical activities, and I'm looking forward to learning more about all the student extracurriculars that so enrich the life of the College."

Since 1981 Illingworth has worked in the Office of Admissions and Financial Aid in Harvard and Radcliffe Colleges, where he is currently associate director of financial aid. He has had major responsibilities for recruitment and evaluation of candidates for Harvard College, with special expertise in the evaluation of musical performance. He was the chief student officer of the University Choir as an undergraduate and responsible for its relations to the Dean's office and to other student organizations.

Illingworth holds an M.Div. degree from General Theological Seminary in New York City, and is a priest in the Episcopal Diocese of Massachusetts. He has served in parishes in his home state of Maine and in the Jamaica Plain neighborhood of Boston.

"David brings to his new position extensive understanding of Harvard, experience in the arts and music, and respect for social service and the development of strong Harvard communities drawn from the College's diverse population," Lewis said. "His extensive experience in personal counseling and in building consensus will be of great value to the College in his new role."

"David Illingworth grew up in northern Maine in the small mill town of Millinocket," said Herschbach. "He carries from his boyhood a refreshing, down-to-earth style seasoned with jolly humor. David is equally at home talking about Mt. Katahdin and the Maine woods, his pastoral life, great music, or quoting from a memorable poem. Students and colleagues alike appreciate David's candor and his ebullience. He will be a wonderful colleague and a superb dean."