Agya Boakye-Boaten, PhD (photo provided)
SUNY Geneseo has selected Agya Boakye-Boaten (pronounced “Ay-jah Bwachee Bwahten”), PhD, as the inaugural dean for the School of Arts and Sciences. He assumes the role on July 17.
“I am excited to partner with Dr. Boakye-Boaten as we strive collaboratively with others to meet the mission, vision, and values of SUNY Geneseo,” says Mary C. Toale, provost and vice president for academic affairs. “He is a leader who listens and cares broadly and deeply to ensure inclusive excellence and will champion the arts and sciences on our campus and within the broader community.”
Boakye-Boaten is a previous U.S. Fulbright Scholar and Carnegie African Diaspora Fellow with 20 years of interdisciplinary experience in higher education, community development, and international education. He is currently the dean of humanities, arts, and social sciences at the University of North Carolina Asheville (UNCA). In this role, he leads 16 departments and interdisciplinary programs in support of faculty, staff, and student success, campus-wide initiatives, and community engagement. "He is a collaborative, entrepreneurial, and innovative leader of positive change whose impact reflects his commitment to exceptional outcomes," says Toale.
“I am thrilled to become a part of SUNY Geneseo during this pivotal moment in higher education,” says Boakye-Boaten. “The college’s dedication to the transformative power of public liberal arts education, its focus on student-centered high-impact experiences, and its community of committed faculty and staff resonate deeply with my values. I am particularly inspired by Geneseo’s strong culture of inclusivity and eagerly anticipate contributing to this vibrant community.”
Boakye-Boaten earned his bachelor’s degree in social work/administration and political science from the University of Ghana–Legon and his master’s degrees in international affairs (African studies) and political science (international relations), as well as his doctoral degree in educational studies (cultural studies) from Ohio University.
Boakye-Boaten’s recruitment was conducted in consultation with a campus search committee chaired by Lori Bernard and David Parfitt and the ACES search firm. Boakye-Boaten will succeed interim dean Amy Sheldon, who has served in the role since February 2023.