New dean named for UC Irvine arts school

Artist, educator and educator Joseph S. Lewis III has been named dean of the Claire Trevor School of the Arts at UC Irvine, effective March 24, 2010.

“Joseph Lewis is both a recognized artist and a gifted administrator who has experience with strategic planning, fundraising and stewardship, curriculum and program development, budget management, and community-partnership building,” UCI Chancellor Michael Drake said in a news release. “I am excited to welcome this dynamic and energetic leader to our university.”

Lewis has been the dean of the School of Art & Design in the New York State College of Ceramics at Alfred University in New York since 2004. The school merges art and technology.

Lewis worked on improving the school’s reputation, developing international programs, working with donors and developing a new mission and vision for the school with faculty. He also oversees the school’s University Gallery.

In the past, Lewis has been a public arts administrator for the city of Los Angeles; a foundation project manager; and director and co-counder of a fashion institution.

“Being appointed dean of the Claire Trevor School of the Arts is one of the most energizing events in my professional career,” Lewis said in a release. “The support and trust of the UC Irvine community is truly humbling. I look forward to working with students, faculty, alumni and friends, and staff to build upon the school’s record of achievement, creative excellence and innovation.”

For more information, visit uci.edu.

— Candice Baker