David G. Horn has been appointed dean of The Ohio State University’s College of Arts and Sciences.

Executive Vice President and Provost Melissa L. Gilliam made the announcement today in a message to the campus community.

“I am delighted to share Dean Horn has accepted our offer to serve as dean of the College of Arts and Sciences,” Gilliam said. “I share David’s view that a thriving arts and sciences college is the heart of a model 21st century land-grant institution. I look forward to my continued work with him, and we will all benefit from his steadfast leadership and service to Ohio State.”

A professor of comparative studies, Horn has provided interim leadership to the college this academic year. During that time, he has been an advocate for faculty, staff and students while moving the college forward with a commitment to interdisciplinary excellence.

“It’s been a real joy to lead our college in this year of transition. The arts and sciences have never mattered more, and our faculty and staff have momentum, purpose and passion. I’m excited about where we can go over the next five years,” Horn said.

A common thread through Horn’s 32-year Ohio State career has been his unwavering service to the university. Prior to being interim dean, he served as the college’s associate executive dean for undergraduate education. In that role, he reimagined his office to enhance the student academic experience and oversaw the college’s transition to remote education during the pandemic.

He also has served as chair of the Department of Comparative Studies, secretary to the university’s Board of Trustees, member of University Senate and chair of its steering committee. He has served on various university-wide work groups, including the committee on faculty career enhancement and the task force on suicide prevention and mental health. In 2019, Horn received the President’s and Provost’s Award for Distinguished Faculty Service in recognition of his contributions to Ohio State.

Horn is a cultural anthropologist by training, and his scholarship explores the history of human sciences, medicine and social technologies in Europe. His teaching focuses on medical humanities and science and technology studies. In recognition of his commitment to his students, his department presented him with the Margaret Lynd Award for Undergraduate Teaching in 2017.

“Through its research, creative expression, teaching and entrepreneurial activity, our College of Arts and Sciences is a hub that provides points of intersection for our campuses through the arts, social and behavioral sciences, humanities, basic sciences, and more,” Gilliam said. “Under David’s leadership, the college will continue to advance its scholarship, academic programs and outward engagement while remaining committed to inclusive excellence.”

Horn’s appointment is effective July 1, 2022, through June 30, 2027, pending approval by the Board of Trustees.

This story was reposted from news.osu.edu.