Sara S. ‘Sally’ Bachman reappointed dean of Penn School of Social Policy & Practice

Bachman’s second term as the dean of the University of Pennsylvania School of Social Policy & Practice will extend to June 30, 2031.

Sara S. “Sally” Bachman’s service as dean of the University of Pennsylvania School of Social Policy & Practice (SP2) has been extended to June 30, 2031, subject to approval by the Board of Trustees.

The announcement was made by President J. Larry Jameson and Provost John L. Jackson Jr. 

“Dean Bachman has led SP2 through a period of remarkable growth, innovation, and resilience,” says Jameson. “Over the past six years, she has demonstrated calm, principled, and effective leadership. Her steady presence has not only sustained the SP2 community but has also enriched it intellectually and programmatically, all while remaining deeply committed to academic excellence and the social good.”

Following the process outlined in the Faculty Handbook, a Consultative Review Committee conducted a comprehensive evaluation of major accomplishments of Dean Bachman’s first term, along with an assessment of the new challenges and strategic opportunities that may face the School during the next five years, especially in support of the objectives articulated in the University’s strategic framework, In Principle and Practice.

“Provost Jackson and I are delighted that Dean Bachman will continue her steady leadership of Penn SP2,” Jameson says. “The consultative committee unanimously supported her reappointment, highlighting her many accomplishments advancing the work of SP2.”

The Committee charged with assessing Bachman’s tenure as dean was united in its praise of her work, acknowledging that under Bachman’s leadership, SP2 has seen significant progress in academic innovation and faculty and staff development, citing specific accomplishments including:

• Doubled its sponsored research revenue
• Reduced tuition dependency
• Advanced academic excellence and expanded its faculty, including its first Penn Integrates Knowledge (PIK) faculty appointment
• Launched innovative programs such as the Practice Doctorate in Nonprofit Administration, certificate in Applied Data Ethics, Law, and the Social Good, and advanced curricular initiatives in philanthropy and climate resilience

“Dean Bachman’s many accomplishments underscore the positive effects of her approachable and inclusive leadership style,” says Jackson. “She works to foster a culture of collaboration, innovation and care among staff, students, and faculty. SP2’s newly launched and first-of-its-kind Practice Doctorate in Nonprofit Administration, a school-wide effort, is one of many tangible examples of how her leadership helps to facilitate ambitious and mission-critical initiatives.”

The Committee included six faculty members, two students, and one alumnus. Together, they interviewed the dean, held numerous meetings with SP2 faculty, staff, and students, solicited confidential feedback, and reviewed internal data and reports detailing work from across the School.

At its next meeting, the Board of Trustees will receive a resolution to reappoint Bachman.

This story was originally published on 9/17/2025 in Penn Today.