Dean of the School of Arts & Sciences
Samuel Thomas named dean of the School of Arts & Sciences
The University has appointed Samuel (Sam) William Thomas III ’00, as the next Robert L and Mary L Sproull Dean of the School of Arts & Sciences. Thomas is a renowned scientist who brings proven academic leadership experience to his new role leading one of the University’s largest academic units. He will join the University of Rochester officially on January 1, 2026.
Search committee and firm
A University-wide search committee was established to help evaluate candidates for this position. The University also acquired the search firm Spencer Stuart Atlanta to assist in the position search.
- Kate Sheeran (CHAIR): Joan and Martin Messinger Dean, Eastman School of Music; Professor of Horn
- George Alessandria: Professor of Economics
- Paul Audi: Professor and Chair, Department of Philosophy
- Amy Fisher: Assistant Dean, School of Arts & Sciences
- Gerald Gamm: Professor of Political Science and History; Associate Chair, Department of Political Science
- Stephen Kleene: Associate Professor of Mathematics
- Amy Lesch: Board of Trustee, Partner at KKR
- Katherine Mannheimer: Professor and Chair, Department of English
- Jennie Noll: Professor of Psychology; Executive Director, Mt. Hope Family Center
- Deb Rossen-Knill: Professor, Executive Director for Writing, Speaking, and Argument Program
- Nora Rubel: Jane and Alan Batkin Professor in Jewish Studies; Professor and Chair, Department of Religion and Classics
- Ashley Smith: Executive Director of Advancement, School of Arts & Sciences
- John Tarduno: Dean for Research
- Albert “Al” C. Uy: Professor and Chair, Department of Biology