Brenda Glascott named Dean of the University Honors College

Portland State University has appointed Brenda Glascott as Dean of the University Honors College, recognizing her exceptional leadership and commitment to academic excellence. Glascott, who has served as Interim Dean since Fall 2023 and Director since Fall 2017, brings a proven track record of innovation, student success, and community engagement to this permanent role.

“Education is world making,” said Glascott. “And the more students engage in collaborative inquiry and in seeking understanding about other people and cultures, the more hope we cultivate for the future.”

Under Glascott's leadership, the Honors College has flourished even during challenging times for higher education. The college achieved 13% enrollment growth while overall undergraduate enrollment at the university declined by 28%. More significantly, she has championed inclusive excellence, increasing first-generation student representation from 24% to 34%, reflecting Portland State's commitment to serving diverse learners.

Glascott's leadership extends beyond enrollment to comprehensive program development. She has successfully fundraised for the college, established an active Honors Council of donors and alumni, and created numerous opportunities for student engagement including the Community Fellows program, Honors Student Ambassadors, and a robust communications internship program. Her establishment of an Honors writing center and bridge courses for transfer students demonstrates her commitment to student success and support.

A distinguished scholar in literacy studies and composition, Glascott holds a Ph.D. in English, Cultural, and Critical Studies from the University of Pittsburgh and the rank of Professor of the Humanities at Portland State. She is co-founder and managing editor of Literacy in Composition Studies and has published extensively in her field.