Ansell joins Institute for Liberal Arts as dean

Emerson welcomes Dr. Amy Ansell as Dean of the Institute for Liberal Arts and Interdisciplinary Studies.

A sociologist, Ansell's interests include race and ethnicity, political sociology, cultural studies, and human rights. Ansell earned her PhD in social and political sciences at Cambridge University.

Ansell comes to Emerson from Bard College, where she was a professor of sociology and chair of the division of social studies. In addition to her time at Bard, Ansell has also served in visiting positions at a variety of institutions in the UK, South Africa, and Zimbabwe. She is the author of numerous books, articles, and reviews on topics such as comparative race relations, reparations politics, right-wing ideology, and ethnicity and democracy in Africa.

“Dr. Ansell brings a strong background and appreciation of the liberal arts as well as a demonstrated commitment to diversity,” said Vice President for Academic Affairs Linda Moore. “I look forward to working with her and the faculty to strengthen liberal arts at Emerson College.”

Ansell said she is thrilled to be on campus. “I am energized by the collective mission and spirit so palpable at Emerson.” she said. “I'm eager to begin working with faculty to increase the visibility and impact of liberal arts across all areas of the college.”