Carissa Slotterback, dean of the School of Public and International Affairs (SPIA) since 2020, is stepping down from her role at Pitt for a position as dean of Arizona State University’s Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions.
A statement from SPIA says Slotterback led the school “through a period of growth and transformation,” including the launch of SPIA’s undergraduate program in public policy and the school's evolution from the Graduate School of Public and International Affairs (GSPIA) to the School of Public and International Affairs.
The school’s new identity is credited with creating new opportunities for students and helping to position the school’s programs for future success.
"It will be so bittersweet to leave the wonderful University of Pittsburgh School of Public and International Affairs after nearly six years,” she said in the announcement from SPIA. “I have so valued my collaborations with SPIA staff and faculty, the opportunity to support our amazing students, and my connections with alumni who are doing incredibly impactful work nearby and around the world."
Slotterback’s leadership has been defined by a commitment to public service, interdisciplinary collaboration and student success, Pittwire reported. That includes fostering a “culture of innovation and engagement across SPIA” while strengthening partnerships throughout the University.
Her impact on the Pitt community will be felt for years to come, Provost Joe McCarthy said in a June 4 announcement.
“Please join me in thanking Carissa for her outstanding leadership and many contributions to Pitt and in congratulating her on this new opportunity,” he said in a statement. “I am deeply grateful for her service to the University of Pittsburgh and wish her every success in her next chapter.”
Slotterback is credited with taking a leading role in creating the University’s Year of Discourse and Dialogue initiative, and Pitt’s partnership with the Institute for Citizens and Scholars.
She also has been lauded for her contributions to the general education update, enhancing faculty development through the Center for Teaching and Learning, strengthening co-curricular programs such as Welcome Week along with connections among Pitt colleagues related to civic discourse and dialogue.
A comment from SPIA leadership said they are “grateful for her commitment to public service education,” and wish her “all the best in what comes next.”
Slotterback’s last day at Pitt will be Aug. 3. Information regarding an interim plan for SPIA’s leadership is forthcoming.
— Shannon O. Wells
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