Daniel Bernardi, who serves as chair of the Cinema Department, has been appointed to a two-year term as interim dean of the College of Liberal & Creative Arts, effective July 1. The University has discontinued the search for a permanent dean at this time.
Since becoming the chair of the Cinema Department in 2011, Bernardi has secured more than $1 million in grants and gifts to the University, reinvigorated the Documentary Film Institute as a regional resource and served as a mentor to both faculty and students.
“Daniel is a scholar, artist and strong leader who has demonstrated an ability to energize others in working toward a common goal,” Sue V. Rosser, provost and vice president for Academic Affairs, said. “I am looking forward to working with him as he guides the college into the future.”
Bernardi will take over for Paul Sherwin, who has served as dean since 2002 and will retire at the end of this academic year.
“I appreciate Paul Sherwin’s many years of service and wish him all the best in his retirement,” Rosser said.
Bernardi said: “The faculty and staff of the College of Liberal and Creative Arts do exemplary work, and I look forward to continuing Dean Sherwin’s efforts on their behalf as well as engaging the chairs and senior administration on preparing the college for the next dean.”