Dean, College of Arts and Sciences

Stetson University's mission is to provide an excellent education in a creative community where learning and values meet, and to foster in students the qualities of mind and heart that will prepare them to reach their full potential as informed citizens of local communities and the world. 

Stetson University seeks an enthusiastic and visionary leader as its next Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences (herein “the College”). Stetson, an institution rooted in “relationship-rich” education, is one of the top regional comprehensive institutions in the nation and is on a path to greater achievement and distinctiveness as a student-centered, innovative institution. Stetson has made strategic investments in academics and student success to further establish the university as an influential force in educating future leaders. The dean will join a leadership team that is defining a bold new chapter for the institution and the College will be critical in this effort. The dean will harness the disciplinary diversity of the College to establish a vision for its future direction and will advocate for the vital role of liberal arts and sciences in modern higher education.  

Located in the heart of Central Florida, Stetson University was founded in 1883 by New York businessman Henry A. DeLand, and later named for John B. Stetson, the nationally known hat manufacturer from Philadelphia who gave generously to advance the academic excellence of the institution. Stetson University enrolls 2,339 undergraduates and 1,331 graduate and professional students in its four colleges and schools: College of Arts and Sciences, College of Law, School of Business Administration, and the School of Music across its three Florida campuses. Additionally, Stetson maintains 21 Institutes, Centers, Programs, and Initiatives. Stetson emphasizes the importance of an education grounded in liberal learning, with practical experiences infused in its programs, culture, and community. The College is a core part of the university with nearly 1,700 students and approximately 160 full-time faculty across 19 academic departments and several interdisciplinary programs. As the leader of the largest academic unit, the dean will have a unique opportunity to lead a broad and comprehensive organization, provide intellectual leadership to dedicated faculty and staff, and develop innovative strategies for academic programs and student engagement.  

The dean will be visible and engaged in the university community and will possess a dynamic leadership style that inspires faculty, students, staff, and alumni to collaborate in the development of a shared vision for the future. Stetson seeks an accomplished scholar and administrator with a track record of success in academic administration and with an understanding of and a commitment to private higher education. 

Pam Pezzoli is leading this search with Debbie Scheibler.