Update on the Search for Dean of the UCLA School of Theater, Film and Television

Dear Colleagues:

As you know, Chancellor Block and I initiated a search last summer for dean of the UCLA School of Theater, Film and Television. Though the search committee and consultants conducted a comprehensive and rigorous search, we were unsuccessful in our efforts to recruit an external candidate, and the search process ultimately illuminated a number of critical challenges facing the school.

As a result, the chancellor and I have decided not to fill the position at this time. We will initiate a new search process when circumstances may be more conducive to a successful dean recruitment. We have asked Professor of Theater Brian Kite, who has served as TFT’s interim dean since January 1, 2020, to continue as interim dean for up to three more years to provide continuity and stability for the school as we work with the TFT community to address some of these challenges. We are grateful to Brian for his service and confident that he will continue to be an energetic and effective advocate and leader for the school.

Please join Chancellor Block and me in thanking the TFT dean search/advisory committee for cultivating a pool of candidates and for gathering information and insights that will help guide the school moving forward. Please also join us in expressing thanks to Brian for his willingness to continue as interim dean. We look forward to your continued partnership in advancing our shared goals for TFT and UCLA during the coming years.

Sincerely,

Emily A. Carter

Executive Vice Chancellor and Provost