Marquis Who's Who Millennium Magazine

394 MILLENNIUM F or nearly 40 years, Ione Vargus has provided leadership to educational institutions in Boston, Philadelphia and Illinois, having been inspired by her strong family to join her field. Her mother, who raised six children on her own after Dr. Vargus’ father passed away, was dedicated to education and encouraged her family to help people. Dr. Vargus wanted to alleviate poverty for families and help the people she was working with make the best use of their strengths. To prepare for her career, she obtained a Bachelor of Arts at Tufts University in 1952, a Master of Arts in social administration at the University of Chicago in 1954, and a Ph.D. in social policy and administration from Brandeis University in 1971. Before becoming involved in academics, she was a family worker for the Boston Housing Authority from 1961 to 1964 and a project director for Camp Fire Girls from 1964 to 1967. She later transitioned to academia as an assistant professor at her alma mater, Brandeis University, and then held the same role at the University of Illinois from 1971 to 1974. After leaving the university, she served as an associate dean, dean and professor at Temple University, where she worked until her retirement in 1995. Dr. Vargus’ achievements include breaking new ground as the first African- American in Temple University’s history to hold the title of academic dean and being told she is a role model for young African-American women. She is proud of her work as chair of the Family Reunion Institute since 1989, as the organization has helped many people create positive familial experiences. To learn more, please visit www.familyreunioninstitute.net. Dr. Vargus, who received the History Makers Education Award in 2006, continues to be active in her field through her civic engagement, affiliations and memberships. Ione Vargus, Ph.D. Academic Administrator Audubon, PA