John Ott named Interim Dean of College of Liberal Arts and Sciences

John Ott will serve as the interim dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, beginning March 17, 2025. He joined Portland State University in 1999 as an assistant professor of history and served as chair of the History Department from 2019-2024.

A specialist in medieval European history, Ott’s research focuses on the social and cultural history of the Middle Ages. He is the author of Bishops, Authority and Community in Northwestern Europe, c.1050-1150 and the co-author of The Medieval Clergy, 800-1250: A Sourcebook, among other works. He has received numerous grants, awards and fellowships, and is a four-time recipient of the John Eliot Allen Outstanding Teacher in History Award.

Throughout his time at PSU, Ott has been deeply engaged in the university community, advocating for students and faculty while navigating institutional challenges. He holds a Ph.D. and M.A. in history from Stanford University and a B.A. in history from the University of Puget Sound.

Ott steps into the role as Todd Rosenstiel transitions to his new position as dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences at Georgia State University.

Academic Affairs has launched its search for the permanent dean of CLAS.