Dear Colleagues,
I am pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Gregg “Bagel” Johnson as the next Dean of the College of Public Affairs and Education (CPAE), pending final approval by the Board of Trustees. Dr. Johnson brings effective academic and administrative leadership experience, along with a strong commitment to public higher education and its role in advancing the public good. His appointment will begin July 1, 2026.
Dr. Johnson earned his M.A. and Ph.D. in Political Science from the University of Arizona and comes to UIS from Valparaiso University, where he most recently served as Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, leading 17 departments and more than 150 faculty and staff. He previously served as Chair of Political Science and International Relations, was active in Faculty Senate, and rose through the faculty ranks to full professor. His earlier academic appointments include the University at Buffalo, SUNY. You can read more about him in the UIS Newsroom.
I also extend my sincere appreciation to Miriam Wallace, Interim Dean since July 1, 2025, and to Ann Strahle, who has taken on additional responsibilities as Interim Associate Dean this past year. Their leadership has provided invaluable continuity for the college during this transition.
Please join me in welcoming Dr. Johnson and in thanking Interim Dean Wallace and Interim Associate Dean Strahle for their dedicated service.
Brandon
Brandon E. Schwab
Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs and Provost
University of Illinois Springfield