A dynamic leader in the realm of information science and science policy, Cassidy R. Sugimoto is set to join Carnegie Mellon University as the new Bess Family Dean of the Marianna Brown Dietrich College of Humanities and Social Sciences starting July 1, 2026. Her appointment represents a significant step for the college as it navigates the complexities of modern academic landscapes.
Currently, Sugimoto is a prominent figure at the Georgia Institute of Technology, holding the positions of school chair, Tom and Marie Patton Chair, and Professor in the Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter School of Public Policy.
James H. Garrett Jr., Carnegie Mellon Provost, expressed his enthusiasm by stating, “Dr. Sugimoto is profoundly in step with CMU’s interdisciplinary culture and our commitment to the ethical inquiry required to address complex societal challenges. She understands that the humanities and social sciences are not just complementary to our technical strengths but are foundational to how we understand and improve the human condition.”
Sharing her excitement, Sugimoto remarked, “I am thrilled and honored to lead Dietrich College, where we ask the most fundamental human questions — about minds and brains, choices and justice, language and culture — and pursue answers through distinctive excellence in teaching and research. This is a moment to be bold: to harness interdisciplinary strength to reimagine how we live together, how we govern and create, and to ensure that human well-being remains at the center of a rapidly changing world.”
An Academic Leader and Advocate for Interdisciplinary Research
During her tenure at Georgia Tech, Sugimoto spearheaded a landmark initiative to rename the School of Public Policy after Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter, achieved in 2025 with the backing of $10 million in development funds. Her leadership since 2021 has been pivotal in elevating student enrollment, national program expansion, and the introduction of four new interdisciplinary undergraduate minors.
Before her role at Georgia Tech, Sugimoto was part of Indiana University Bloomington from 2010 to 2019, contributing significantly to the Department of Library and Information Science and later the Department of Informatics.
Her academic background is rooted in the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, from where she holds a bachelor’s degree in music performance, a master’s in library science, and a Ph.D. in information and library science.
Exploring the Human Facet of Knowledge Production
Sugimoto’s scholarly pursuits are centered on the “science of science,” probing the production, dissemination, and support of knowledge. From 2018 to 2020, she was a program director for the Science of Science and Innovation Policy at the National Science Foundation.
Her book “Equity for Women in Science” highlights her commitment to challenging systemic barriers in academia and promoting evidence-based equity.
In her prolific career, Sugimoto has contributed to over 200 peer-reviewed journal articles and serves on the editorial boards of several notable publications. She has also been recognized with numerous awards, including the Indiana University Trustees Teaching Award and a national service award from the Association for Information Science and Technology.
Selecting the New Dean of Dietrich College
Sugimoto was chosen following a comprehensive national search led by Barbara Shinn-Cunningham and Kevin Zollman.
Expressing his gratitude, Garrett stated, “I extend my sincere gratitude to the search committee, for their diligent work in identifying such a visionary leader. I also thank the Dietrich College community for their engagement and feedback throughout this process.”
Sugimoto will succeed Richard Scheines, who has been the dean since 2014 and previously led the Department of Philosophy. Scheines will return to the faculty and continue contributing to the Simon Initiative.
Garrett acknowledged Scheines’ contributions, stating, “Richard has laid a strong foundation for the college, and his dedication to the Dietrich community has been truly impactful. We are grateful for his many years of service and his continued contributions to the university.”
Envisioning the Future of Humanities and Social Sciences
The Dietrich College of Humanities and Social Sciences at Carnegie Mellon University is known for its bold approach to addressing society’s most intricate issues. By fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, the college aims to prepare its students for a rapidly changing world.
Under Sugimoto’s leadership, the college will continue to expand its influence in understanding human behavior amidst technological and societal shifts. With a focus on experiential learning, students are empowered to gain the skills necessary for future success.
Dietrich College’s faculty and alumni have earned accolades from prestigious organizations, including Nobel Prizes and Guggenheim Fellowships. In 2025, members from the college received Pulitzer Prizes, further cementing its reputation as a leader in humanities and social sciences.
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