Since the onset of the pandemic, our School has experienced transformative change. From moving to a majority-virtual classroom environment and adapting to a name change, to saying farewell to former dean Cecilia Rouse, our community has demonstrated remarkable resilience and optimism.

Earlier this week, Mark Watson stepped away from the interim dean role — a post he helmed several times with enthusiasm and skill — in light of health-related issues. All of us at SPIA thank Mark for stepping up upon Ceci’s departure to the Biden-Harris administration, and wish him well as he returns to full-time teaching and economics research. I am honored to take the baton and lead SPIA during this critical transition.

The search committee continues its diligent efforts to recruit a new permanent dean. In the meantime, I am committed to serving the needs of our community. While I’ve served in this role before, I’m cognizant of the unique challenges faced by the School at this time. As we forge ahead, I encourage you to reach out if you have any questions or require the support of my office.

Nolan McCarty
Interim Dean
Susan Dod Brown Professor of Politics and Public Affairs