New COTA Dean Announcement
It is my great pleasure to announce that Dr. Robin Bargar has accepted our offer to become the next dean of the College of the Arts (COTA). Please join me in welcoming him to campus when he starts on July 20.
Currently, at the University of Salford, Dr. Bargar serves as the University Director of Digital and Creative Industry Collaboration as well as a professor in the School of Arts Media with a joint appointment in Computing Sciences. In this role, he has reported to the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Provost) as a member of the Vice Chancellor (President’s) Senior Leadership Team.
During his tenure, Dr. Bargar successfully established key partnerships with industry partners, commercial ventures, civic partners, and government agencies. These external relationships resulted in new revenue sources for the university as well as created new opportunities for students and faculty with new course offerings.
Dr. Bargar’s academic disciplinary area is in Music (composition) where he has earned numerous professional and academic recognitions. One distinct honor was earning an Oscar Nomination for Best Short Film in 1996. He has published several book chapters, professional white papers, and has earned two patents.
With an extensive background of working at universities, Dr. Bargar has a proven track record of leadership skills and strategic thinking. He is also an accomplished musician who understands technical and creative artistry. These collective assets make him the perfect candidate to create a clear direction and vision that will lead the college into the future.
Dr. Bargar remarked that he is ‘honoured to become a member of College of the Arts and to work with its students, faculty and staff.’ He looks forward to joining COTA’s energy and unlimited potential and is committed to growing and celebrating the creative momentum of this community.
I want to extend my deepest gratitude to Margaret Black for her excellent work as interim dean over the past year. She stepped into the role with little notice and has provided excellent leadership to the college.
I would like to thank the members of the search committee, ably chaired by Paul Baker Prindle, for their work in an alternate format. Much appreciation also goes to the campus community as well as COTA for their commitment to prevail in this virtual environment. To all who participated in the open forums, virtually met with the candidate and provided feedback, thank you. I am grateful for your dedication, perseverance, and passion for finding the best candidate for the position.
Sincerely,
Brian Jersky, Ph.D.
Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs
