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Catherine Forestell named Vice Dean of Natural, Mathematical and Health Sciences & Interdisciplinary Studies
Catherine Forestell has been appointed Vice Dean of Natural, Mathematical and Health Sciences & Interdisciplinary Studies in Arts & Sciences, succeeding Rob Hinkle whose term ends June 30. She will provide strategic leadership support to departments and interdisciplinary programs across the sciences, fostering collaboration and advancing initiatives that strengthen the research and teaching missions of the university.
A professor in the Department of Psychological Sciences, Forestell has been an engaged and effective leader across a wide range of university initiatives. Since 2020, she has directed the interdisciplinary Neuroscience Program, working closely with faculty from Biology, Kinesiology, and Psychological Sciences to strengthen the curriculum and support new faculty hires in Neuroscience.
Forestell’s leadership experience includes serving as President of the Faculty Assembly, Faculty Representative to the Board of Visitors, Chair of the Arts & Sciences Faculty Affairs Committee, and co-Chair of the Women’s Network. As a CLA Fellow, she co-developed one of the first COLL 300 themes and co-designed a workshop to support first-year course development. She has also played a key role in university-wide strategic planning efforts, including as co-chair of the Teaching & Learning subcommittee of the W&M 2026 Steering Committee.
“I’m delighted and honored to take on this new role and to continue working alongside colleagues across Arts & Sciences,” said Forestell. “Our science and interdisciplinary programs are thriving, and I’m deeply committed to supporting a collaborative, inclusive environment where academic excellence, discovery, and innovation will continue to flourish.”
Dean of Arts & Sciences Suzanne Raitt expressed her enthusiasm for the appointment. “Catherine brings deep institutional knowledge, a collaborative spirit, and a strong commitment to faculty governance and student success,” Raitt said. “She is a thoughtful leader whose experience makes her exceptionally well suited for this role. I’m also deeply grateful to Rob Hinkle for his outstanding service as Vice Dean.”
Raitt expressed thanks to the search committee for their thoughtful work and dedication throughout the search process.
Forestell assumes her new role on July 1, 2025.