Oakland University has selected a new dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, pending approval by trustees.
Bradley J. Swanson joins OU from Central Michigan University, where he currently serves as interim vice president for research and innovation and professor of biology.He starts on Aug. 1. His faculty assignment will be as professor in the biology department with tenure.
Joseph Shively, senior associate dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, will serve as acting dean from July 2 through July 31.
During his 25-year career at CMU, he established a record as a scholar, teacher, researcher and academic leader, with a strong commitment to student success, shared governance, and the value of a liberal arts and sciences education.
In his current role, Swanson helped lead CMU to a record- setting year of $38 million in competitively awarded grants.
“Throughout the search process, faculty, staff and university leaders emphasized the
importance of identifying a dean who could champion the liberal arts and sciences, strengthen research and creative activity, support student success and lead with transparency and integrity,” said OU Provost Amy Thompson. “Dr. Swanson’s experience, accomplishments and leadership philosophy align strongly with those aspirations, and I’m confident he’ll be an outstanding leader for the College of Arts and Sciences.”
He’s also served in numerous academic leadership roles, including as chair of the academic senate, director of graduate studies, director of the neuroscience program and director of the environmental studies program.
Swanson earned a bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of Michigan, a master’s degree in Zoology from the University of Idaho, and his doctorate in biology from Purdue University.