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University of Rhode Island appoints Pamela Swett dean of the College of Arts and Sciences

McMaster University humanities dean brings extensive experience in interdisciplinary education, strategic planning, and civic engagement

Pamela Swett

KINGSTON, R.I. — May 26, 2026 — The University of Rhode Island has appointed Pamela Swett as dean of the College of Arts and Sciences following a national search. Her appointment will take effect July 26.

The College of Arts and Sciences is URI’s largest academic college and serves as the foundation for a broad range of programs in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences.

Swett currently serves as dean of the Faculty of Humanities at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario, where she has led initiatives focused on strategic planning, interdisciplinary education, research support, and civic engagement since 2019.

“Pamela brings an exceptional record of academic leadership, scholarly accomplishment, and collaborative engagement,” said Barbara Wolfe, URI provost and executive vice president for academic affairs. “Her experience advancing interdisciplinary initiatives, supporting research and student success, and building strong partnerships across academic communities makes her an outstanding choice to lead the College of Arts and Sciences.”

During her tenure at McMaster, Swett led the creation of the Faculty of Humanities’ first strategic plan, Inspiring Sustainable Futures. She also helped develop major interdisciplinary programs, including the Bachelor of Health Science in Integrated Rehabilitation Science and Humanities and the Integrated Arts program.

Swett played a key role in helping secure support for the Wilson College of Leadership and Civic Engagement and served as academic lead for the Future of Canada Project, which culminated in the national Imagining Canada: 2080 forum in 2023.

Before becoming dean, Swett served as associate dean of graduate studies and research and chair of McMaster’s Department of History.

“I am honored to join the University of Rhode Island and the College of Arts and Sciences,” Swett said. “URI’s commitment to academic excellence, public engagement, and student opportunity strongly resonates with me, and I look forward to working with faculty, staff, students, alumni, and community partners to build on the college’s many strengths.”

A scholar of modern German and European history, Swett earned her Ph.D. from Brown University. She is the author or editor of six books and numerous scholarly publications examining political culture, commerce, and violence in Germany between 1918 and 1945. Her scholarship has been supported by grants and awards from organizations including the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada, the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation, the German Historical Institute, and the American Historical Association.

Wolfe also thanked Brenton DeBoef for his dedicated service as interim dean during the past year and for his leadership of the college throughout the transition.