Lynn University appointed Dr. Gary Villa to dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, succeeding Dr. Katrina Carter-Tellison as she assumes the role of academic dean full time.
Villa served as a biology professor at Lynn since 2002. He played a significant role in shaping the Dialogues core curriculum and instituted a peer mentoring program between upperclassmen and freshmen within their areas of study. Most recently, Villa began working with College of Arts and Sciences faculty on an initiative to emphasize research in undergraduate programs.
“The College of Arts and Sciences played a fundamental role in developing Lynn’s core curriculum, but our impressive faculty holds the key to our continued success,” said Villa. “Professors continue to push the boundaries of learning with a desire to implement innovative new initiatives. I’m looking forward to working together to elevate academic offerings across all programs.”
This year, Lynn celebrates the 10-year anniversary of the Dialogues curriculum. The Dialogues has become a cornerstone of the Lynn academic experience, restructuring the traditional college curriculum to instill a common set of knowledge across all majors. As dean, Villa will oversee the program’s continued development—evaluating course offerings and structure to ensure the most advantageous program for students.
“Katrina and Gary worked closely over the years to establish Lynn’s core curriculum and elevate arts and sciences programs,” said Dr. Gregg Cox, vice president for Academic Affairs. “As we work toward realizing the Lynn 2025 strategic plan, their commitment to academic success will support even greater achievements by our faculty and our students.”
Villa holds a Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science from the University of Missouri and a Ph.D. from Stanford University, where he also earned Stanford’s Excellence in Training Award.
