CR Appoints Dr. Rebecca Robertson as New Dean of Culture, Society & Communications

Feb 11 2025

College of the Redwoods Appoints Dr. Rebecca Robertson as New Dean of Culture, Society and Communications

College of the Redwoods is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Rebecca Robertson as its new Dean of Culture, Society, and Communications. Dr. Robertson has over 20 years of experience in higher education, where she has made notable contributions in online education, inclusive student success, curriculum, and program design. Her expertise aligns with CR’s mission to provide accessible and high-quality education to the North Coast community.

Dr. Robertson comes to CR from Cal Poly Humboldt, where she served as the Director of the Interdisciplinary Studies - Individualized Degree Program (IDP), developing and managing a flexible degree pathway that meets diverse student needs and goals. Previously, she served as Faculty in Anthropology, Graduate Program Coordinator for the M.A. in Applied Anthropology, Director of the Applied Anthropology and Ethnographic Research Lab, and Faculty Rights Chair for the California Faculty Association. She holds a Ph.D. in Education, an M.A. in Globalization and the Environment, and a B.A. in Anthropology, underscoring her commitment to interdisciplinary learning and collaboration.

Dr. Robertson’s connection to CR runs deep—she previously served as an associate faculty member in the Anthropology Department and as a member of the College of the Redwoods Board of Trustees. Her leadership embodies a deep commitment to innovation, equity, and fostering an inclusive educational environment where students, faculty, and staff thrive. Her research and publications address critical issues in higher education, with findings that have informed institutional practices and served as expert testimony before the Oregon State Legislature on improving transfer pathways for first-generation and underserved students.

Dr. Robertson is also deeply committed to faculty development and academic excellence. She has led professional development initiatives focused on enhancing online and hybrid instruction, supported faculty in curriculum innovation, and advocated for shared governance and collaborative leadership. Her experience mentoring faculty in best teaching practices, student-centered learning approaches, and interdisciplinary research will help strengthen CR’s academic programs and foster a dynamic teaching and learning environment.

“I am excited to join the College of the Redwoods community and apply my experience in higher education, program development, and student success to support its students and the broader region,” said Dr. Robertson. “CR is a vital part of our community, helping students build their futures—whether they are pursuing a college degree, gaining workforce skills, or preparing for a new career. I look forward to working with faculty, staff, and local partners to foster innovation, expand opportunities, and strengthen career pathways.

My aim is to ensure that CR continues to serve as an adaptable and forward-thinking hub for education, workforce training, and community growth, providing students with the resources and hands-on learning experiences they need to succeed in 21st-century careers and an ever-changing world.”

CR President Dr. Keith Flamer expressed his enthusiasm for Dr. Robertson’s appointment, stating, “We wanted to find an innovative leader who is energized by the opportunity to help College of the Redwoods’ upward momentum and impact in our community. I believe that College of the Redwoods has found the perfect match in Dr. Robertson, whose academic and management expertise positions her as an astute and innovative leader for CR’s future.”

As Dean, Dr. Robertson will oversee the following academic programs:

 

Administration of Justice
Anthropology
Art
Communications
English
Ethnic Studies
History
Language
Music 
Native American Studies 
Philosophy 
Political Science 
Psychology 
Sociology 
Social Work

 

She will play a key role in advancing CR’s Education Master Plan and ensuring that CR continues to be a beacon of opportunity for students seeking personal and professional growth.

College of the Redwoods is excited to welcome Dr. Robertson and looks forward to her contributions to the institution’s future.