Incoming College of Liberal Arts Dean Philip Williams
What made you choose Oregon State as your next destination?
I was excited to return to an R-1, land grant university, where public and community engagement are part of the institution’s DNA. I was also attracted by the talented faculty and professional staff in the CLA, the robust academic programs, and the innovative initiatives to integrate the arts and humanities with the STEM disciplines.
What makes you passionate about the liberal arts?
I’m a big believer in the transformative power of a liberal arts education. Students in the liberal arts develop the ability to: think critically and creatively and to apply their knowledge to real-world problems; communicate effectively orally, visually, and in writing; value human diversity and develop cultural competence; make reasoned, ethical, and responsible decisions; think across disciplinary boundaries; and finally, to engage in life-long learning. A liberal arts education helps students to not only find their passion, but also a sense of meaning and purpose that will fuel their success in work and in life.
What advice would you give the younger version of yourself who was just starting college?
Excel in your major, but also explore other minors within the CLA and across campus. Embrace opportunities to participate in international experiences. Reach out to faculty and advisors early and often. Find time for building a community and network of support. And allow yourself to be vulnerable enough to acknowledge when you need help.
What is the role of liberal arts in an increasingly technologically focused world?
The liberal arts have a vital role to play in relation to emerging technologies. Besides questions of governance and management related to the use of generative AI on campus, we also need to consider the ethical, policy, and social justice dimensions of AI and other emerging technologies. For example, how can technology be a force for good? The liberal arts have much to contribute to these conversations.
Where in Oregon are you most eager to visit?
I’m especially interested in visiting the southern part of the Oregon Coast and central and eastern Oregon.
Your career has emphasized global engagement. How do you see that playing out in your role as dean?
As someone who had the opportunity to study abroad in the UK during my junior year, I’m passionate about global engagement opportunities for students and faculty. In every leadership position I’ve held, I’ve always found ways to remove barriers and expand opportunities for global engagement. This will be a priority for me as dean of CLA.
What would you like to know from CLA faculty as you move into your new position?
I’m eager to learn more about the scholarly and creative activity of CLA faculty and to know how the college can better support their success as teacher-scholars.
What was your favorite humanities or social science class as an undergraduate?
My favorite classes as an undergraduate were Latin American Politics and Advanced Spanish courses.
Based on your area of research, in what ways do you think Latin American immigration improves US culture?
Latin American immigrants have shaped our history and made significant contributions to the US – revitalizing local economies, enriching our music, arts, food, sports, and culture, and galvanizing social and labor movements to expand opportunities and rights for all Americans.
What is your favorite non-academic pursuit or passion?
I love to swim, hike, and travel. And on a cold, rainy day I love to do a jigsaw puzzle.
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