The Cornell Ann S. Bowers College of Computing and Information Science has announced a series of leadership appointments and reappointments that strengthen academic, administrative, and student‑focused operations across the college. The appointments reflect Cornell Bowers’ continued investment in excellence in teaching, research, and community.
“These leaders bring deep expertise, steady judgment, and a shared commitment to the success of our students, faculty, and staff,” said Sorin Lerner, dean of Cornell Bowers. “I’m grateful for their willingness to serve and for the strength and continuity they bring to our college. Cornell Bowers is fortunate to have such a dedicated team guiding our academic mission.”
- Larry Blume: six‑month extension, Associate Dean of Academic Affairs
Larry Blume, professor of information science and Distinguished Arts & Sciences Professor of Economics, has been appointed to a six‑month extension (December 2026) as associate dean of academic affairs. Blume has provided thoughtful, principled leadership in academic affairs, guiding faculty processes with clarity and consistency. His work has strengthened cross‑college coordination and supported the development of policies that advance academic excellence.
- James Booth: one‑year extension, Chair of Statistics and Data Science
James Booth, professor of statistics and data science, has received a one‑year extension (June 30, 2027) as chair of the Department of Statistics and Data Science. Booth has guided the department through a period of significant expansion, including new faculty hires, strengthened graduate programs, and increased visibility of the department’s research strengths. His continued leadership provides stability as the department advances its strategic priorities and responds to growing student demand.
- Steve Marschner: two‑year reappointment, Associate Dean of Research
Steve Marschner, professor of computer science, has been reappointed to a two‑year term (June 30, 2028) as associate dean of research. Marschner has played a key role in shaping the college’s research environment, including establishing research incubators and supporting faculty in developing new interdisciplinary collaborations. His reappointment ensures continued stability and expertise in college‑level research strategy and decision‑making.
- David Mimno: three‑year reappointment, Chair of Information Science
David Mimno, associate professor of information science, has been reappointed to a three‑year term (June 30, 2029) as chair of the Department of Information Science. Under his leadership, the department has continued to thrive and expand its impact. Mimno has supported faculty recruitment, strengthened interdisciplinary research connections, and enhanced both undergraduate and graduate programs. His next term will continue this momentum as the department deepens its leadership in human‑centered computing and data‑driven research.
- Hakim Weatherspoon: three‑year reappointment, Associate Dean of Belonging
Hakim Weatherspoon, professor of computer science, has been reappointed to a three‑year term (June 30, 2029) as associate dean of belonging. Weatherspoon has been a driving force behind the college’s belonging initiatives, expanding programming, strengthening partnerships with student groups, and advancing efforts to build a more inclusive and supportive community.
New Directors of Undergraduate Studies:
- Dan Kowal, Ph.D. ’17: Director of Undergraduate Studies, Statistics and Data Science
Dan Kowal, associate professor of statistics and data science, has been appointed director of undergraduate studies for the Department of Statistics and Data Science. He will oversee curriculum, advising, and undergraduate program strategy, succeeding Martin Wells in this role.
- Michael Clarkson, Ph.D. ’10: Director of Undergraduate Studies, Computer Science
Michael Clarkson, teaching professor of computer science, has been appointed director of undergraduate studies for the Department of Computer Science. Clarkson, who served as interim director for the past year, succeeds Lillian Lee in this role and will continue supporting one of the largest and fastest‑growing undergraduate programs at Cornell.
A new director of undergraduate studies for the Department of Information Science will be announced once the appointment is finalized. The role was previously held by Matthew Wilkens, who was recently appointed associate dean of education for the college.