Dean's Corner

Dean GerShun Avilez
GerShun Avilez has served as the Dean of the College of Liberal Arts since November 25, 2024. He is a pre-eminent cultural studies scholar who specializes in contemporary African American and Black Diasporic literature and visual culture. Learn more about GerShun Avilez.

The liberal arts offer people a skillset to think critically and live in the world amongst others. 

At its heart, CLA is a college committed to the value and importance of the liberal arts for all of us—our students and our citizens.

We equip students with the tools to navigate complexity, engage thoughtfully with diverse perspectives, and contribute meaningfully to society. Through the liberal arts, we cultivate curiosity, foster critical thinking, and emphasize the importance of shared humanity. Whether analyzing global cultural differences, creating transformative art, advancing understanding of economic dynamics, or studying treatments for hearing loss, CLA prepares individuals not just for careers, but for a lifetime of impact in our interconnected world.

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Dean GerShun Avilez
Introducing Dean GerShun Avilez

In this video, Dean GerShun Avilez describes his research, upcoming book, and vision for the college.

 

Introducing Dean GerShun Avilez

Fall image with maroon, gold and green ivy on a brick building on Twin Cities campus.
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News about the publications, creative activities, and recognition given to our faculty, staff, and graduate students — updated monthly. 

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