Feature Stories 2026: Meet Dean Philip Scher

When Philip Scher was appointed as the dean of the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) this academic year, he identified with CAS's longstanding mission to encourage interdisciplinary practice.

As dean, Scher aims to advance the College's fundamental principles of fostering social impact and real-world application.

Why CAS at UMass Dartmouth?

"The College of Arts and Sciences at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth stands out for its deep commitment to access, public scholarship, and community engagement. Its interdisciplinary strengths and global outlook align closely with my own scholarly and administrative priorities. I was especially drawn to the opportunity to support a college that bridges rigorous academic inquiry with meaningful social impact," said Dean Scher.

"Also, I was born in Providence, Rhode Island, and the opportunity to return to the region was very exciting!"

What excites you about joining CAS?

"I am excited by the intellectual breadth of CAS and the opportunity to collaborate with faculty and students across disciplines. There is a strong culture of innovation here, particularly in connecting the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences to real-world challenges. We have a college that is small enough to meaningfully work together and large enough to do groundbreaking research. I am also energized by the college's role within a regional public university that is deeply connected to its communities."

What is your vision for CAS?

"My vision is for CAS to be a national model for interdisciplinary teaching, research, and public engagement. I hope to strengthen pathways that connect students' academic experiences to careers, civic life, and global challenges. At the same time, I want to ensure that we continue to invest in faculty excellence and cultivate an inclusive, intellectually vibrant community."

What do you enjoy about leading a college as big and diverse as CAS?

"I value the opportunity to engage with a wide range of disciplines, perspectives, and forms of knowledge within a single academic community. That diversity creates space for unexpected collaborations and innovative approaches to teaching and research. It also allows us to support students with varied interests and aspirations in meaningful and transformative ways."

What made you decide to become a dean?

"My decision to become a dean grew out of a desire to support faculty and students at a broader institutional level. As an anthropologist, I've researched how the idea of belonging can be fostered within mindful and inclusive communities. I have long been committed to building environments where scholarship, teaching, and community engagement can thrive. This role allows me to help shape structures and opportunities that make that work possible."

As a dean, what is your philosophy?

"My philosophy is grounded in collaboration, transparency, and a strong commitment to shared governance. I believe in listening carefully, making decisions thoughtfully, and ensuring that our work remains centered on student success and faculty achievement.

"Ultimately, leadership is about creating the conditions in which others can do their best work. Furthermore, in a rapidly shifting landscape of higher education, I believe we have to be nimble and forward-looking, while keeping in mind that some of the best things we can give our students are the skills, rooted in the liberal arts, to change, adapt, and lead in an ever-changing world."

"There is a strong culture of innovation here, particularly in connecting the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences to real-world challenges."