Anderson named dean of EWU's College of Social Sciences

Eastern Washington University has named Jonathan Anderson, Ph.D, the new dean of EWU's College of Social Sciences (CSS), effective immediately.

Anderson has served as interim dean of CSS since April 2017, and his selection comes after a nationwide search. He came to Eastern in 2006 as an assistant professor after earning a Ph.D in clinical psychology from Seattle Pacific University. He was promoted to associate professor in 2011 and professor in 2015.

During his time at Eastern, Anderson has served as chair of EWU's Department of Psychology, where he provided oversight for multiple undergraduate and graduate programs and two accreditations. As associate dean in the College of Social Sciences (2014-2016), he earned the respect of faculty and staff for his highly capable and fair leadership style.

"I am thrilled to be selected for this position," Anderson said. "I hope to grow the college (Social Sciences) in areas that align with the needs of students, the expertise of faculty, the initiatives of the university and the demands of the workforce."

While serving as interim dean, Anderson has been actively engaged in new program development and delivery modalities; strategic programming and planning; developing fundraising goals and diversity and inclusion initiatives.

"I am excited to have him continue as a member of my team," EWU Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Scott Gordon said. "I look forward to expanding our work together in service to our faculty, students and the university."

A highly regarded teacher and an active scholar, Anderson has been the recipient of multiple outstanding faculty awards in research, teaching and service: Professor of the Year 2011–2012; the President's Award 2011-2012; and the Dean's Outstanding Service Award 2012–2013.