New Dean of the W.A. Franke Honors College: Dr. John Pollard

Congratulations to Dr. John Pollard for accepting the position of dean of the W.A. Franke Honors College! 

Dr. Pollard has served as interim dean since 2022. Here is a message from Interim Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost, Ronald W. Marx.

"Dear Colleagues,

I am pleased to announce that Dr. John Pollard has accepted the position of dean of the W.A. Franke Honors College following a nationwide search. Dr. Pollard was among four finalists who participated in open forums on campus as part of the interview process. Dr. Pollard has served as interim dean of the Honors College since July 2022. Before serving as interim dean, he was the college's associate dean for academics and curricular innovation. Throughout his academic career, Dr. Pollard has been an innovator, creating high-quality programs for our diverse students, and a leader, advancing the honors experience across campus. He is committed to the college's mission to “empower each student to reveal and pursue their passion," and students and faculty alike will continue to benefit greatly from his dedication, expertise and enthusiasm. Dr. Pollard, who earned a doctorate in inorganic chemistry, has spent more than two decades as an educator at the University of Arizona. He has received numerous awards in recognition of excellence in teaching and curricular development, such as his work in co-authoring the nationally recognized Chemical Thinking curriculum – a prominent part of introductory chemistry courses at the University of Arizona as well as institutions across the world. As associate dean of the Honors College, Dr. Pollard has led the design and implementation of several student-centered programs. Because of these programs, the 2020-21 edition of Inside Honors, which rates and reviews public university honors programs, recognized the college as the Most Improved Honors College. From developing the innovative future Earth resilience minor and designing and piloting interdisciplinary pedagogy for the University general education refresh, to initiating collaboration between the Honors College and the Hispanic-Serving Institution work being done across campus, Dr. Pollard has helped propel the Honors College as a locally and nationally recognized hub of innovation. I want to thank Dr. Gail Burd, chair of the search committee, and the search committee members for their diligence and thoroughness in bringing forward exceptional candidates. 

Sincerely,

Ronald W. Marx Interim Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost The University of Arizona"