New Leadership Appointments in the Office of the Provost

Dear Colleagues:

As spring arrives and we look ahead to the end of the semester, I am writing to share news of two exciting leadership appointments in the Office of the Provost.

We are delighted to share that Miguel Urquiola, Professor of Economics and Dean of Social Science for the Faculty of Arts & Sciences, will serve as a new Senior Vice Provost for Academic Initiatives. An exemplary scholar, administrator, and University citizen, Professor Urquiola has been a member of the Columbia community since 2003 and has chaired the Department of Economics. His research on the economics of education has resulted in numerous published journal articles and a book on why American universities excel at research: Markets, Minds, and Money. As Senior Vice Provost, Professor Urquiola will focus on promoting cross-school academic excellence, starting with a comprehensive review of Regional Studies programs. This work will begin with a faculty committee review of Middle East programs. Professor Urquiola will continue in his role as Dean of Social Science within A&S. 

Following Dennis Mitchell’s recent transition to Interim Dean of the College of Dental Medicine, we are pleased to welcome Dima Amso, Professor of Psychology, as Vice Provost for Faculty Advancement. Professor Amso has been a member of the Columbia community since 2020 and is currently serving as Chair of the Faculty of Arts & Sciences Policy and Planning Committee. As Vice Provost, Professor Amso will work with the Faculty Advancement team to strengthen its portfolio of faculty development and community building initiatives, with particular emphasis on stewarding the growth of our junior faculty. In addition to her administrative responsibilities, Professor Amso will remain active in her research and teaching.

Please join me in thanking and congratulating our colleagues as they take on these important roles in the Office of the Provost. We look forward to the year ahead as we continue partnering with our community in charting a course for Columbia. 

Sincerely, 

Angela V. Olinto 
Provost 
Professor of Astronomy and of Physics