Dorothy F. Schmidt College of Arts & Letters Names New Dean

By polly burks | 6/21/2017

Michael J. Horswell, Ph.D., has been named the new dean of the Dorothy F. Schmidt College of Arts and Letters at 91��Ƭ��, following a national search. In addition to a distinguished record of scholarship and teaching, Horswell brings a wealth of strengths and knowledge from the College to the position of Dean, having served as the associate dean of research and graduate studies for the College since December 2012.

“During the national search process, Dr. Horswell stood out as a distinguished scholar, teacher and administrator,” said Gary Perry, Ph.D., 91��Ƭ�� provost. “With his institutional knowledge and his experience leading innovative initiatives, I am confident that he will guide the college to many future successes.”

Horswell served as director of the Ph.D. in Comparative Studies Program in the College from August 2012 to January 2017 and prior to that served as chair of the Department of Languages, Linguistics and Comparative Literature from August 2008 to December 2012. Horswell replaces the former dean, Heather Coltman, DMA, who has taken the position of university provost at James Madison University.

“It is more important than ever that students at public universities like 91��Ƭ�� acquire the critical and creative thinking skills needed for a lifelong journey of career success and personal fulfillment,” said Horswell. “I am very excited to lead an exceptional group of faculty and staff dedicated to providing 91��Ƭ�� students the very best educational experience in the Liberal Arts. I am confident that our scholars, artists and researchers will continue to contribute greatly to 91��Ƭ��’s strategic plan, “Race to Excellence,” while engaging the South Florida community through outreach and public programs.”

Horswell is well-published in his area of Latin American studies with two books, several book chapters and several journal articles published over the past few years. He earned a Ph.D., in Spanish American literature from the University of Maryland, a master’s degree in Spanish studies from Middlebury College, and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Spanish and business economics from Wofford College.

-91��Ƭ��-

Tags: arts and letters | faculty and staff