By Iridian Casarez
HSU will soon welcome its new dean of the College of the Arts, Humanities and Social Science, Lisa Bond-Maupin. Bond-Maupin is starting as the new position in July. She is coming from the University of Arkansas.
Q: Where are you from?
A: I grew up mostly on the coast of California and Baja California. We lived in Ensenada BC ( Baja California), Inglewood, Chula Vista, San Diego, Santa Cruz, and Ferndale, California. Much of that time we lived on a sailboat my father built. We sold the boat and moved to dry land when I was in high school. I attended Ferndale High School until my senior year when my parents bought a farm in Missouri and we moved to the Ozarks. I loved Humboldt County as a young person. And I still do.
Q: Where are you currently working now?
A: I became the Founding Dean of a brand new college of Social Sciences and Communication at the University of Arkansas Little Rock three years ago. I have had the privilege of working with students, staff, and faculty to build this college and establish a college identity and community. That is what I am doing now and until my last day here at the end of May.
Q: What made you interested in applying for the dean position at HSU?
A: Humboldt State University has had a clear and consistent identity and set of commitments as long as I can remember. I knew of HSU’s reputation for leading in environmental sustainability before it was something people were really talking about. I was aware of HSU’s commitment to social justice. I have always been intrigued by HSU’s uniqueness.
Q: What can you bring to HSU as the new dean of the College of the Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences?
A: I look forward to using my experience to support faculty in the achievement of their professional goals as I learn more about their passions. I know that HSU is different in significant ways and my knowledge will grow as I learn from my colleagues there. I am ready to partner to explore meaningful and sustainable approaches to growing programs and deploying resources at HSU. I am committed to student success.
Q: What are you looking forward to most?
A: I am looking forward to making new friends and being part of the community of scholars at Humboldt State University. I look forward to collaborating, celebrating, and laughing together. I look forward to contributing to a sustainable and strong future for our programs, college, and university.