Two new deans have been appointed at CWU following an expansive nationwide search. Christopher Redfearn will now lead the College of Arts and Humanities (CAH), and Julie Baldwin will lead the College of the Sciences (COTS). The news was announced May 5 in a press release sent out by CWU.

Patrick Pease, provost and executive vice president for academic affairs, shared thoughts on the new candidates appointments in the press release, stating, “Dr. Redfearn and Dr. Baldwin emerged from two highly competitive searches, and we are looking forward to them joining the Wildcat family this summer,” Pease said. “Both colleges already have a strong foundation, and we expect these two proven leaders to help elevate our support of students, faculty, and staff to an even higher level.” 

Baldwin has a PhD in Geology from MIT, and has worked as the Interim Dean of the College of Humanities and Sciences at the University of Montana. Baldwin gave a statement in the press release as well, stating, “I’m inspired by CWU’s emphasis on hands-on research, experiential learning, and community engagement … experiences that are essential to preparing students for the careers and challenges of the future,” Baldwin said. “I also look forward to leading a college that unites the natural and social sciences, creating space for interdisciplinary research, innovation, and real-world impact for our faculty and students.”

Redfearn on the other hand has “a Doctor of Arts from the University of Northern Colorado School of Music, a Master of Music from Michigan State University, and a Bachelor of Music from Brigham Young University.” In the past he has served as the Vice President for Academic Affairs at University of Jamestown. 

Speaking to the importance of CAH, and what he hopes to bring to CWU, Redfearn stated in the press release, “The arts and humanities help us understand the human experience, and studying them not only enriches students’ lives but also builds essential skills like critical thinking, collaboration, communication, and problem solving,” Redfearn said. “There is simply no better place to study the arts and humanities than at Central Washington University, and I can’t wait to start sharing that story.”