Cynthia Z. Rawitch has been named the interim dean of California State University, Northridge’s Mike Curb College of Arts, Media, and Communication. She is replacing departing Dean Robert Bucker, who will be leaving at the end of this month for a dean’s position at Portland State University. Until recently, Rawitch was the vice provost of the university. The appointment becomes effective Aug. 1.

“For me it is like going home again since the College of Arts, Media, and Communication was my college for many, many years, including four as the associate dean,” said Rawitch. “I think I can contribute to the college in the time I will be there, especially in helping to move forward with existing plans and new initiatives.”

CSUN Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Harry Hellenbrand said he was pleased that Rawitch was willing to serve as interim dean while a search for the permanent position took place.

“Dr. Rawitch has temporarily shelved retirement plans in order to accept this role and perform critical functions as lead administrator for the college,” Hellenbrand said.

Rawitch began her career at CSUN in 1973 as an adjunct journalism professor following four years as a reporter for the Associated Press. She later became a tenured journalism professor, and has held a variety of positions across the CSUN campus: advisor and publisher of the student-run newspaper the Daily Sundial; journalism department chair; associate dean and acting administrator-in-charge of the College of Arts, Media, and Communication; associate vice president of undergraduate studies; vice provost; and soon interim dean of the Mike Curb College.

“I hope to continue the work done over the past few years that has built a wonderful and dedicated faculty,” Rawitch said. “In addition, the focus of the university and college has been to support student success and help students to earn their degrees. I hope to look at what more could be done.”

Cynthia Rawitch, Mike Curb College of Arts Media and Communication