Marian University proudly announces the appointment of David Rusbasan, Ph.D., a professor and scholar with a Marian University career spanning well over a decade, as the new Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. Dr. Rusbasan, who has served as Interim Dean since 2023, brings an extensive history with the university, ensuring a seamless transition for our institution's values and goals.
Joining Marian as an adjunct professor in 2007, Dr. Rusbasan has progressed through various roles, including assistant professor, associate professor of psychology, professor of psychology, assistant dean, and interim Dean.
Dr. Rusbasan stated, "I am deeply honored and thrilled to assume the role of Dean of Marian University's College of Arts and Sciences. It is a privilege to lead such a dynamic academic community and to work alongside dedicated faculty, staff and students who are committed to excellence in education and scholarship."
Moreover, Dr. Rusbasan served as co-director and director of Marian's undergraduate teaching and learning assessment from 2013 through 2021 and developed and managed the curriculum as chair/director of general education from 2017 through 2022.
"People underestimate the value of liberal arts today when, in fact, it is the true differentiator as a transformational leader. This is what Marian University is about – transformational leaders in service to the world. Dr. Rusbasan's dedication to the liberal arts and the pursuit of excellence make him the ideal candidate to guide the College of Arts and Sciences to support the Journey to 2030 strategic plan," said Kenith Britt, Ph.D., Marian's chief operating officer and chancellor. "His commitment to Catholic, Franciscan higher education and his outstanding ability to connect with students and faculty exemplify the core values of Marian University. We are confident that under his leadership, the College of Arts and Sciences will reach new heights of success, innovation, enrollment growth, and academic excellence."
Dr. Rusbasan's educational background includes a bachelor's degree in psychology from Marian University and a master's and doctoral degree in industrial and organizational psychology from the University of Connecticut. With nearly 25 years of teaching experience, Dr. Rusbasan has presented at numerous academic conferences and published in multiple scholarly journals on toxic coaching, workplace stress, weight stigma, and work-school conflict.
"Dr. Rusbasan's tenure has been defined by his commitment to advancing the academic landscape of the university and we are excited to welcome him as the new Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, confident in his ability to drive the college to new heights of success, innovation and academic excellence," said Marian's Chief Academic Officer Binh Tran, Ph.D.
Additionally, as the Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, Dr. Rusbasan will lead strategic planning and administration for all the Arts, Humanities, Natural, and Social Service disciplines, ensuring the college's alignment with university goals and objectives. He will also lead departmental operations, budget management, personnel, and the fostering of interdisciplinary collaboration.
