Incoming Leadership Propels the Beach into Innovation, Rigor, and Readiness

CSULB is proud to announce and welcome three new deans and one associate vice president to the Division of Academic Affairs. Dr. Royce W. Smith has been named dean of the College of the Arts, Dr. Anna Ortiz is the new dean of the College of Education, and Elizabeth Dill has been appointed dean of the University Library. Dr. Patricia A. Pérez has also been named Associate Vice President of Faculty Affairs. With appointments set to begin this summer, the incoming leadership will bring a plethora of valuable experience and knowledge just in time for the 2023-24 academic year. 

Dr. Smith, Dr. Ortiz, and Dill aim to propel their units forward and further strengthen The Beach as a whole. They are highly dedicated to aligning their leadership with Beach 2030’s strategic priorities, specifically in building a future-ready university and contributing to the public good. Some of their passions coming into the role also include community building, creating inclusive spaces, and providing resources for everyone on campus. As experts in their fields, the newly appointed deans look forward to implementing their visionary leadership styles, working alongside their teams, and contributing to the “Beach experience.” 

CSULB’s Associate Vice President for Faculty Affairs, Dr. Pérez also holds extensive experience in providing training and guidance on the implementation of diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives into faculty retention and promotion. A former faculty and chair, her equity-minded efforts also align with the Beach 2030 strategic plan to sustain student, faculty, and staff success.  

These four leaders will continue to guide our campus into a student-ready and future-thinking institution. Together, they will move us forward and contribute to our students’ success both on campus and beyond. CSULB Academic Affairs is excited to witness their collaboration and welcome our new leadership this summer.