New deans start July 2016

Dr. Chris Goto-Jones begins a five-year term as Dean of the Faculty of Humanities on July 1, 2016, having been confirmed in a faculty ratification vote. Goto-Jones has a distinguished record of achievement as a researcher, teacher and administrator, and is a highly respected scholar with an extensive publishing record regarding questions of philosophy in a global context. Specifically, he is interested in modern Japan and East Asia, with a particular focus on issues in the history of political and ethical thought. Goto-Jones has taught and lectured in leading centres around the world. Since 2009 he has held the Chair in Comparative Philosophy and Political Thought at Leiden University; he was also the founding Dean of Leiden University College, the Hague from 2009-2013. Prior to these appointments he was Chair Professor of Modern Japan Studies at Leiden University in 2006. Dr. Cedric Littlewood remains Acting Dean of Humanities until June 30, 2016.

Dr. Susan Lewis has received a positive ratification from faculty and begins a five-year term as Dean of the Faculty of Fine Arts on July 1, 2016. Lewis currently serves as Acting Dean of the faculty, was a Director of the School of Music and the School’s Acting Director in 2010 and 2012. She joined the School as an Assistant Professor in 2001.

Acting Dean of Science Dr. Kathryn Gillis also completes her term on June 30, 2016, and Dr. Rob Lipson returns from his administrative leave to resume his position as Dean of the Faculty on July 1, 2016. 

Dr. Oliver Schmidtke has been appointed Acting Associate VP Research for a one-year term commencing on July 1, 2016. VP Research Dr. David Castle notes, “He is uniquely qualified for the role of acting AVPR due to his leadership of the Centre for Global Studies, international focus, and record of excellence in international research.” In light of the new Strategic Research Plan (SRP) and refreshed international plan, the position description for the AVP Research has been significantly revised to relate it more closely to the priorities in the SRP, particularly international research partnerships. Revisions to the position description and Schmidtke’s appointment will enhance the OVPR’s ability to implement the SRP and refreshed international plan, and allow sufficient time for a new and thorough search process to fill the AVPR position. Dr. Martin Bunton has kindly agreed to act as the Director of the Centre for Global Studies for the one-year term.

Dr. Nancy Wright has also been appointed as Associate Vice-President Academic Planning for a five year term beginning July 1, 2016.