To guide the College of Liberal Arts (CoLA) on its upward trajectory throughout the upcoming academic year, we have appointed Dan Cavanagh to serve as interim dean, effective September 2, 2021.

Currently the interim associate dean for academic affairs in CoLA, Dan has been with UTA and the college for over 15 years, advancing from assistant professor of music to professor and department chair before moving into his current role. As one of the largest colleges at UTA, CoLA encompasses a variety of departments that span the arts, humanities, and social sciences. As the college’s scope and reach grows, Dan is the clear candidate to sustain that growth.

In his time at UTA, Dan has been a reliable leader who regularly steps up to serve CoLA in the interest of advancing the college, its diverse set of disciplines, and, most importantly, its students. All the while, he has maintained an expansive, award-winning career as an accomplished composer and pianist. Dan is an exemplary model of someone who uses creative activity to elevate the human condition—a core aspect of CoLA’s mission. In addition, he has a record of selfless commitment and outstanding service to the University, as exemplified by his tenure as both a member and the chair of the UTA Faculty Senate.

“In CoLA, our amazing students and faculty explore the expanse of the human condition—from understanding where we’ve come from, to analyzing the challenges and opportunities of the current moment, to laying down potential roadmaps for our future,” he said. “Through our strength in research, innovative creative activities, and deep partnerships with our community, we launch our students into the world with the skills and critical thinking tools to change the world. I’m honored and excited to continue leading and supporting the trajectory of our college.”

Dan is filling the position vacated by Elisabeth Cawthon, who will continue at UTA as a faculty member. With his innate understanding of how the fine and performing arts, humanities, and social sciences can unite to impact communities, Dan will maintain and build upon CoLA’s momentum in fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, elevating the college’s research profile, and enriching the educational experience for our students.

I also want to take another opportunity on behalf of the faculty, staff, students, and alumni of UTA to express our appreciation to Dr. Cawthon for her outstanding service as CoLA dean. CoLA is on a positive and upward trajectory, and we look forward to her return to the CoLA faculty.

We will be sharing more information about the search for a permanent replacement, and we appreciate the partnership and feedback of CoLA faculty, staff, and students throughout this process.

Please join me in congratulating Dan on this appointment.