Chawne Kimber Appointed at Pitzer College
Pitzer College is thrilled to announce that Chawne Kimber, a prominent mathematician and dedicated educator, has been appointed as the Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of Faculty. This January marks a new era of leadership for the college, as Dr. Kimber officially begins her impactful role on July 1.
Speaking about her selection, Pitzer College President Strom Thacker and Pitzer Faculty Executive Committee Chair Carina Johnson expressed, “Dr. Kimber brings a wealth of experience in higher education leadership and a deep commitment to academic excellence, social responsibility, and intercultural understanding—values at the core of Pitzer’s mission.”
Professional Journey of Dr. Kimber
Before her transition to Pitzer, Kimber held the prestigious position of dean at Washington and Lee University, directing a robust academic framework that included 21 departments alongside 13 interdisciplinary programs. Her previous tenure as a professor and head of the Mathematics Department at Lafayette College was marked by her efforts to cultivate an inclusive and innovative environment in STEM education, a vital area for societal advancement.
At Lafayette, Chawne co-founded a pioneering initiative: the Summer Program to Advance Leadership in STEM, which aims to empower students from underrepresented backgrounds to succeed in these crucial fields. The importance of such programs cannot be overstated as they directly contribute to the diversification of leadership in science and technology.
Background and Education
Kimber hails from Kentucky and began her academic expedition at the University of Florida, where she initially pursued engineering before discovering her passion for mathematics. After earning her master’s degree from the University of North Carolina in 1995, she completed her PhD at the University of Florida four years later.
Research and Contributions
Dr. Kimber’s research interests play a pivotal role in merging abstract algebra with functional analysis, showcasing her profound understanding of complex mathematical theories. Furthermore, she is well-known for her integration of social justice themes into her academic teachings, mirroring Pitzer College's commitment to interdisciplinary learning that seeks to empower students both intellectually and socially.
Artistic Endeavors
Aside from her academic and administrative roles, Kimber is an internationally celebrated quilter whose artwork reflects powerful themes of race, identity, and activism. Influenced by her family's traditional quilting practice in Alabama, she has displayed her creations at esteemed venues such as the Smithsonian American Art Museum. Her quilts, often described as contemporary pieces infused with historical significance, challenge viewers to engage with thought-provoking narratives and convey bold artistic expressions.
As Kimber eloquently stated in a past interview, “It’s a quiet way, at first, during the making, to deal with issues. But then, out there in the world, my quilts sort of speak for me.” This fusion of art and social commentary underlines her multifaceted identity as both an educator and an artist.
Endorsements and Future Prospects
In an announcement from Washington and Lee University regarding Kimber’s new role, Provost Lena Hill praised her significant contributions, noting, “Chawne has accomplished a great deal as dean of the College. She combined her impressive administrative sensibility with her dedication to mentoring faculty and staff.” Hill's sentiment highlights the potential impact Kimber will have at Pitzer College as she embarks on this new journey.
“She will be a terrific vice president of academic affairs and dean of faculty, and Pitzer College is fortunate to have her,” Hill added, showcasing the overarching support and anticipation surrounding Kimber’s leadership transition.
About Pitzer College
Founded in 1963, Pitzer College stands as a premier institution in liberal arts and sciences education. With a steadfast commitment to environmental studies, interdisciplinary pursuits, arts, and sciences, Pitzer consistently ranks among the leading colleges in the U.S., according to renowned evaluations. The college serves a close-knit community of 1,200 students, offering them access to extensive resources typically found at larger universities while preserving the intimate atmosphere of a small liberal arts college.
Pitzer College is part of The Claremont Colleges consortium, which enriches the educational experience by providing collaborative opportunities across five undergraduate colleges and two graduate institutions. This unique education model offers students the benefits of comprehensive academic resources coupled with personalized and engaging learning experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Chawne Kimber?
Chawne Kimber is a mathematician, educator, and artist, recently appointed as the Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of Faculty at Pitzer College.
What role did Kimber hold prior to joining Pitzer College?
Before her appointment at Pitzer, Dr. Kimber served as the dean at Washington and Lee University, overseeing multiple academic departments.
What initiatives did Kimber co-found?
She co-founded the Summer Program to Advance Leadership in STEM to support underrepresented students in science and technology fields.
What is Kimber’s academic background?
Kimber received her master's degree from the University of North Carolina and completed her PhD at the University of Florida.
What is Pitzer College known for?
Pitzer College is recognized for its focus on liberal arts and interdisciplinary studies, emphasizing social responsibility and environmental awareness in its curriculum.
