Ray Jayawardhana, the Harold Tanner Dean of Arts and Sciences, has announced transitions in the College’s senior leadership team that will take place on July 1.

After three-and-half years, Andy Bass will complete his term as Senior Associate Dean for Math and Science.

“We have benefited tremendously from his depth of understanding of science labs and centers across the university from his time in the office of the vice provost for research and the years of service he has given to the College, including as chair of Neurobiology & Behavior,” said Jayawardhana. “I know I am not alone in my deep gratitude for his contributions to Cornell, and I am especially thankful for Andy’s trusted insight and guidance from the very beginning of my tenure as Dean.”

Rachel Bean, professor of astronomy will move into the position of Senior Associate Dean for Math and Science. She is currently Senior Associate Dean for Undergraduate Education; in that role, she has overseen the successful implementation of the first major update to the College’s curriculum in more than 20 years, as well as the launch of the new First Year Advising Seminars, and a restructuring of Student Services and Admissions that has improved how the College supports students’ academic aspirations. She has also managed the increased applications to the College.

“Her stellar organizational skills and thoughtful leadership will be of great value as she transitions to this new role,” said Jayawardhana.

Michelle Smith, the Ann S. Bowers Associate Professor in the Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, will become the next Senior Associate Dean for Undergraduate Education.

“Michelle brings a wealth of experience,” noted Jayawardhana, including her involvement in the Active Learning Initiative and her research focusing on pedagogical strategies to improve outcomes in undergraduate STEM instruction. Smith co-founded the Cornell Discipline-based Education Research group that brings together DBER researchers from across the campus for collaborative scholarship in this emerging field that draws on psychology, education and cognitive science research with the goal of enhancing student learning and instructor teaching.

Read the story on the College of Arts and Sciences website.