Carissa Slotterback is stepping down as dean of the School of Public and International Affairs

Carissa Slotterback, who has served as the dean of the School of Public and International Affairs (SPIA) since 2020, is stepping down from her role with the University to become dean of the Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions at Arizona State University.

Slotterback’s time as dean has been marked by lasting accomplishments that have strengthened the school’s academic mission, expanded its reach, and elevated its national profile.

Most notably, she led the successful development and launch of the SPIA’s undergraduate program in public policy — an important milestone that has transformed the school. This achievement has created new opportunities for students and helped to position the school’s programs for success in the future.

Slotterback’s leadership has also been defined by her commitment to public service, interdisciplinary collaboration and student success. She has fostered a culture of innovation and engagement across SPIA while strengthening partnerships throughout the University and beyond. Her impact on the school and the Pitt community will be felt for years to come, Provost Joe McCarthy said in a June 4 announcement.

In addition to her work at SPIA, Slotterback has played a central role in advancing the University’s Year of Discourse and Dialogue initiative and Pitt’s partnership with the Institute for Citizens and Scholars. Over the past two years, her leadership helped establish a strong foundation for this work through contributions to the general education update, enhanced faculty development through the Center for Teaching and Learning, strengthened co-curricular programs such as Welcome Week and deeper connections among colleagues across the University around civic discourse and dialogue.

Slotterback’s last day at Pitt is Aug. 3. The University will share additional information regarding an interim plan for the school’s leadership soon.

“Please join me in thanking Carissa for her outstanding leadership and many contributions to Pitt and in congratulating her on this new opportunity,” said Provost McCarthy. “I am deeply grateful for her service to the University of Pittsburgh and wish her every success in her next chapter.”