New dean of Syracuse’s iSchool begins work in the spring semester

SYRACUSE — The new dean of Syracuse University’s School of Information Studies (iSchool) will begin his duties early in the new year. 

The school has announced the appointment of Rajiv (Raj) Dewan as the next dean of the iSchool. Dewan’s appointment, which was approved by the executive committee of the Syracuse University board of trustees, is effective Jan. 13, 2020, Syracuse said.

Dewan, professor of computers and information systems, comes to Syracuse University from the University of Rochester’s Simon Business School, where he currently serves as a professor of business and director of the master’s degree in business analytics program. 

“Raj has great expertise in both technology and information analytics and an impressive track record of building academic programs, harnessing the passion and interests of faculty, and truly innovating curriculum in teaching and pursuing relevant research,” John Liu, incoming interim vice chancellor and provost, said in a statement. 

Liu also thanked David Seaman, dean of libraries and University librarian, for taking on the additional interim position of iSchool dean after former dean Liz Liddy retired in June and while the search for her replacement was underway.

About Dewan

In his time at Rochester, Dewan worked with faculty to develop the business analytics curriculum; partnered with admissions to build the applicant pool and recruit students; and liaised with corporate partners to place students in competitive career and internship opportunities, Syracuse said. 

When it was launched in 2014, the master’s degree in business analytics program had four students in its inaugural class; today, it has more than 90.

Dewan previously served as senior associate dean for faculty and research and chief operating and academic officer at the Simon Business School. He was principally in charge of developing and retaining faculty, assessing and developing programs, and managing budgets and the technology infrastructure. 

Dewan also served as the school’s diversity officer, “charged with ensuring inclusivity and a healthy and welcoming environment for all students.”

“I have long admired the groundbreaking work being done at Syracuse University’s iSchool,” said Dewan. “I appreciate its history and current commitment to innovation in the digital age. Today’s students and professionals are seeking the kinds of experiences they will need for successful careers in library science, information policy, information behavior, information management, information systems, information technology, information services, data analytics and enterprise data systems. I look forward to working with deans and faculty across campus to ensure that our students have access to the information and experiences they seek.”