John Carroll University is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Angela Canda, Associate Professor of Psychology, as the new Dean of our Graduate School.
Since joining John Carroll in 2010, Dr. Canda has contributed a wealth of academic expertise and leadership experience to the university. Over the past 15 years, she has served in several key roles, including Director of the Honors Program, Chair of the Committee on Rank, Tenure, and Promotion, Vice Chair of Faculty Council, and most recently, Chair of the Psychology Department. Before coming to JCU, she was a post-doctoral research fellow at Kent State University, where she also earned her bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in psychology.
As a scholar, Dr. Canda specializes in cognitive psychology, with a particular focus on memory and language processes. Her research and teaching interests intersect with cognitive science and neuroscience, and she has taught courses such as Sensation & Perception, Human Memory & Cognition, Experimental Design & Analysis, and Introduction to Cognitive Science. Looking ahead, she is excited to launch a new course, Introduction to Neuroscience, as part of a new major set to begin next year.
In addition to her teaching and research, Dr. Canda embraces academic innovation and often collaborates with her colleagues to provide the best learning opportunities for students. This practice of breaking down traditional silos to foster creative and interdisciplinary opportunities was instrumental in the successful development of both the Neuroscience major and the Artificial Intelligence minor at the undergraduate level – the latter of which is also set to launch next year. By prioritizing collaboration, Dr. Canda ensures that students gain access to a holistic, cutting-edge education that prepares them to excel in a rapidly evolving world.
“I’m really excited to be joining such a strong team in the Graduate School,” Dr. Canda said. “This position offers a unique opportunity to collaborate across campus and build new programs that meet the needs of a changing world. Together, we can strengthen and grow JCU’s graduate programs while continuing to uphold our mission of intellectual formation and professional preparation.”
In her new position, Dr. Canda is eager to position the graduate school as a key player in JCU’s strategic and national growth. She will work closely with the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Health, and the Boler College of Business to expand and innovate graduate offerings, ensuring they align with the university’s core values and prepare students to excel in their careers.
“Angie brings tremendous experience and a collaborative leadership style that will benefit the entire university,” said Rebecca Drenovsky, Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs at John Carroll. “Her dedication to academic excellence and her innovative vision for graduate education make her the perfect fit for this role. We are excited to see how she will shape the future of the Graduate School.”