Indian-American new Harvard dean

Washington : A distinguished Indian American scholar and teacher, Rakesh Khurana, the Marvin Bower Professor of Leadership Development at Harvard Business School (HBS), has been named the dean of Harvard College, a prestigious Ivy League institution.

Khurana, who earned his PhD through a joint programme between HBS and Harvard's Graduate School of Arts and Sciences in 1998, is also professor of sociology in the Faculty of Arts and Sciences (FAS), and co-master of Cabot House. Announcing the appointment in an email to the FAS community, FAS Dean Michael D. Smith praised Khurana as a scholar and teacher with deep experience working with undergraduates and a strong commitment to the College. "Rakesh is a distinguished scholar of organizational behaviour and leadership, an award-winning teacher, and a dynamic House master who has also deeply engaged with undergraduate issues on important committees," wrote Smith. "Rakesh's style of leadership is distinctly inclusive; he understands the importance of listening and looks forward to engaging with the faculty and the College."

Khurana succeeds Evelynn M. Hammonds, the Barbara Gutmann Rosenkrantz Professor of the History of Science and professor of African and African American Studies, who stepped down last June after completing her five-year term.

Donald Pfister, the Asa Gray Professor of Systematic Botany, will continue to serve as interim dean until July 1, when Khurana assumes the role. He and his wife, Stephanie, will remain masters of Cabot House. The Khuranas have three children. "I'm honoured to have this opportunity to serve the College and work with the faculty, students, and staff to create a transformative educational experience for our students," said Khurana.