Loyola University Chicago announced that Malini Suchak, PhD, has been appointed Dean of the School of Environmental Sustainability (SES) effective July 1, 2025.
Suchak most recently served as a professor and chair of the Animal Behavior, Ecology, and Conservation department at Canisius University in Buffalo, NY. In her role as chair, she oversaw 250 students across two undergraduate programs, including the largest major at the university, and one hybrid graduate program.
“Throughout all of Dr. Suchak’s work, she’s taken a holistic approach to caring for the environment, recognizing the connections between sustainability and social justice,” said Provost Douglas W. Woods. “We’re thrilled to welcome her to Loyola, where her leadership is undoubtedly aligned with the Jesuit, Catholic mission that drives the University.”
Suchak held several other leadership roles at Canisius including co-chairing their Middle States Commission for Higher Education self-study accreditation process and overseeing the Native Plants Project. Additionally, she drafted Canisius’ first three-year action plan for Laudato Sí.
Suchak has also served as a community organizer around food justice and on the Leadership Council of the Good Food Buffalo Coalition. Suchak completed her BS in Biology at Canisius College (now University) and her MA and PhD in psychology at Emory University in Atlanta.
“I’m excited to be joining Loyola and the School of Environmental Sustainability,” Dr. Suchak said. “The work of the talented faculty, staff, and students of SES, in service of the University’s mission around sustainability, is addressing critical issues in society today. I look forward to collaborating to steward SES through the next phase of growth and development.”
Suchak serves as the successor to Nancy C. Tuchman, PhD, founding dean of SES. Under Tuchman’s direction since 2020, SES has developed eight interdisciplinary undergraduate programs, launched a master’s degree program in environmental science and sustainability, doubled the full-time faculty, and expanded student enrollment in these programs to over 500.
“Dr. Tuchman’s impact cannot be overstated,” Woods said. “Her leadership put Loyola in the top 10 percent of greenest colleges in the nation. She will be greatly missed, but her influence will continue to mold and support generations of students to be thoughtful environmental leaders.”
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