I am writing to share important updates regarding the leadership of the Graduate Division.
I am pleased to announce the appointment of Professor David Oglesby as full-time Associate Dean of the Graduate Division. David is a Professor of Geophysics in the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences, where he served as department chair from 2013 to 2019 and as Graduate Advisor from 2010 to 2013. He has been an active and distinguished voice in shared governance, most recently serving as Chair of the Graduate Council (2023–2024) and as UCR's representative to the UC Systemwide Planning and Budget Committee. His scholarly record is equally impressive, with over 70 peer-reviewed publications, 57 funded grants, and a long commitment to graduate mentorship. David's deep familiarity with graduate education at both the campus and system level makes him exceptionally well-suited for this role, and I look forward to working closely with him.
This announcement comes alongside the transition of our two Associate Deans, Emma Wilson and Kate Sweeny, who will be returning to their home departments. I want to take this opportunity to express my sincere gratitude for the extraordinary contributions they have made to the Graduate Division and to our graduate students and faculty. Over the years, Emma and Kate have worked tirelessly to support students through fellowship allocations, academic guidance, and the thoughtful management of complex and sensitive cases. They have championed grants and programs that expand pathways to graduate education, broadening access and opportunity for students from all backgrounds. Their dedication to students and to the faculty who mentor them has left a lasting mark on this institution.
On a personal note, I am also grateful for the generosity and care with which Emma and Kate welcomed me and helped me navigate my own transition to UCR three years ago. Their knowledge, patience, and goodwill made an enormous difference, and I will not forget it.
Finally, I am delighted to announce the promotion of Kara Oswood to Assistant Dean. Kara has been instrumental in advancing graduate affairs at UCR, and her expanded role reflects both the quality of her work and the confidence we have in her leadership going forward. Please join me in congratulating her.
These transitions reflect the strength and resilience of the Graduate Division, and I am grateful to all who have contributed and continue to contribute to its mission.