College of Arts and Sciences Newsroom
Danielle Poe named College of Arts and Sciences dean
The University of Dayton has named Danielle Poe dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, the largest academic unit on campus with more than 4,000 students, over 60% of the University’s faculty, and academic programming that plays an integral role in the education of all undergraduates.
Poe, acting dean since February, has more than two decades of experience with the University, as a philosophy professor with an expertise in the philosophy of peace, and more recently as the College’s associate dean for curriculum and academic outcomes. She was selected after a highly competitive search; her appointment as dean begins June 1.
“Danielle is a highly effective, collaborative and respected leader committed to student success, faculty research, and diversity, equity and inclusion,” said Paul H. Benson, provost and executive vice president of academic affairs. “Her years of work as associate dean on curriculum and student learning, in addition to her many contributions to universitywide academic initiatives, have demonstrated that she is a trusted and transparent collaborator who is able to bring a broad, integrative vision and a highly engaged leadership style to the mission of the arts and sciences.”
In her leadership roles, she has supported professional development; advocated for interdisciplinary education; enhanced student support with a focus on diversity, equity and inclusion; and built relationships with alumni and external partners, including those whose gifts made possible the Ethics and Leadership Initiative.
“The College has many strengths in its Catholic and Marianist commitment to a holistic, liberal arts and sciences education for students,” Poe said. “I look forward to continuing to advocate for our students, faculty, staff and community, and create space for meaningful research, curriculum and work.”
Poe holds a doctorate of philosophy from Fordham University, a master’s from Katholieke Universiteit in Belgium, and a bachelor’s from Seattle University. She is the author of “Maternal Activism: The Ethical Ambiguity Faced by Mothers Confronting Injustice,” and an editor of “Communities of Peace: Confronting Injustice and Creating Justice” and “Parceling the Globe: Philosophical Explorations in Globalization, Global Behavior, and Peace.”
The College of Arts and Sciences emphasizes experiential learning and faculty-mentored research for students across more than 60 undergraduate and graduate programs in performing and visual arts, humanities, and natural and social sciences. It offers students opportunities to conduct science and technology research, connect with social justice issues, and prepare for Catholic ministry through the Fitz Center for Leadership in Community, Hanley Sustainability Institute, Human Rights Center, Institute for Pastoral Initiatives, and Integrative Science and Engineering Center. Ninety-five percent of students in the Class of 2021 are employed, in graduate school or in a full-time service program within six months of graduation.