November 12, 2024 — Dr. Jacqueline Reich, Dean of the School of Communication and the Arts, will embark on a new chapter at the end of this academic year as she steps down from her role as dean to focus on teaching and research. As she transitions to her new role as a full-time Professor of Film, Television, and Media Arts, Dr. Reich will remain an important part of the Marist community, bringing her expertise and enthusiasm into the classroom and continuing to shape the academic experience for students.

A national search process to identify the next Dean of the School of Communication and the Arts is underway. Provost Catherine Gunther Kodat says the school is in a great position to continue building on the momentum overseen by Dr. Reich.

“I am extremely pleased that Dr. Reich will be joining the department of Film, Television, and Media Arts,” said Kodat. “Her authoritative knowledge of Italian cinema and strong commitment to community-based learning will enrich the curriculum and open new avenues in experiential learning for our students.”

Since Dr. Reich’s appointment as Dean in July 2021, the School of Communication and the Arts has grown significantly, with highlights including the launch of a revised Master of Arts in Marketing Communication program and two dual degrees in communication and fashion merchandising. Fashion merchandising was added as a bachelor’s degree at Marist’s Florence campus, and the Fashion program was named among the top in the nation by Vogue magazine. 

“Over the past four years, I have had the pleasure of working with an incredible group of talented faculty, staff, and students to create a learning environment that promotes the best of Marist’s 'Power of And': cutting-edge pre-professional training and superior liberal arts preparation,” she said.

Dr. Reich’s leadership accomplishments include increased scholarship support, revitalizing and expanding the MakerLab in the Steel Plant, centralizing the first- and second-year advising experience with professional advisors, expanding internship opportunities, and creating a partnership with Fordham University to enhance the summer internship experience.

Dr. Reich has also been a vocal advocate for equity of experience for all Marist students, working with faculty to create experiential learning opportunities through MPorium, North Road Communications, the Red Fox Report, and community-based learning. 

As a scholar and educator, Dr. Reich has a distinguished record in cinema and media studies, including her acclaimed work on Italian film stardom. As Dean, she has continued to publish and appear on television and in film in her areas of expertise. 

“I look forward to going back into the archive to unearth some of the forgotten stories of film history and involve students in my research. I am also very excited to teach in the Honors program next year and develop more community-based learning courses.”