Chris Andersen appointed dean and vice-provost (college of social sciences and humanities)
Andersen's five-year term as dean of the college of social sciences and humanities will begin on October 1.
Aloys Fleischmann'In a statement released on September 8, Provost and Vice-president (academic) Verna Yiu announced that Chris Andersen has been appointed dean and vice-provost of the college of social sciences and humanities (CSSH). His five-year term will begin on October 1.
Andersen is the current dean of the faculty of Native studies. He is also a professor in the faculty. According to the announcement, Adam Gaudry, faculty of Native studies’ vice-dean, will serve as interim dean for the faculty starting October 1.
As a scholar, Andersen’s work focuses on areas including Métis nationhood, Indigenous quantitative methodologies, and urban Indigenous identities. He was inducted into the Royal Society of Canada’s College of New Scholars, Artists, and Scientists.
Additionally, Andersen is a special advisor to the Office of the Vice-Provost (Indigenous Programming and Research).
The College Dean Selection Committee conducted the selection process over the summer. This included public forums and smaller in-person meetings, which CSSH students, faculty, and staff were invited to. There were also opportunities for CSSH members to submit feedback online.
“I am excited for [Andersen] to lead the CSSH through its continued collaborations and multi-disciplinary and inter-disciplinary successes,” Yiu said in the announcement.
Andersen declined an interview with The Gateway as he’d like to wait until he’s had time in his new role, according to U of A media relations.
